President Trump Donald John TrumpBiden leads Trump by 36 points nationally among Latinos: poll Trump dismisses climate change role in fires, says Newsom needs to manage forest better Jimmy Kimmel hits Trump for rallies while hosting Emmy Awards MORE endorsed former White House physician and retired Navy Rear Admiral Ronny Jackson (R) for an open House seat in Texas.

Jackson is running in the state’s 13th congressional district, a Republican stronghold and seat that will be left vacant by Rep. Mac Thornberry William (Mac) McClellan ThornberryTrump payroll-tax deferral for federal workers sparks backlash Overnight Defense: Woodward book causes new firestorm | Book says Trump lashed out at generals, told Woodward about secret weapons system | US withdrawing thousands of troops from Iraq Top Armed Services Republican 'dismayed' at Trump comments on military leaders MORE (R ), the ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee, who announced his retirement last year.

Jackson entered the crowded primary late, turning in paperwork a day before the deadline to file.

ADVERTISEMENT

“I hope we can get Admiral @RonnyJackson4TX of Texas, who served our Country so well, into the runoff election in #TX13!” Trump tweeted. “Ronny is strong on Crime and Borders, GREAT for our Military and Vets, and will protect your #2A. Get out and vote for Ronny on Tuesday, March 3rd!”

I hope we can get Admiral @RonnyJackson4TX of Texas, who served our Country so well, into the runoff election in #TX13! Ronny is strong on Crime and Borders, GREAT for our Military and Vets, and will protect your #2A. Get out and vote for Ronny on Tuesday, March 3rd! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 28, 2020

Trump nominated Jackson last year to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs, but he was withdrawn from consideration amid allegations of professional misconduct, including drinking on the job and overprescribing medication. Jackson also reportedly hid cauliflower in the president's mashed potatoes to improve his diet.

The Texas primary takes place on Super Tuesday.