David Shulkin: “There is no more noble mission and it would be my distinct honor and privilege to be part of this effort.”

I came to Washington with the commitment to make our system work better for veterans. That's the commitment that I went to work every day. I continue to feel strongly about that. There was no reason why I would resign.

The VISN model was put in place close to 20 years ago, a very innovative model that has served VA well.

I wasn't willing to do that. I don't think that's the right thing for veterans and I stood up against them.

I think the way the findings were used -- were used in a political way. Not by the inspector general, but by the political appointees within V.A.