The third most senior official at the Department of Veterans Affairs is stepping down amid findings she misled ethics officials to secure approval for VA Secretary David Shulkin's wife to accompany him on a taxpayer-funded trip to Europe. Viveca Wright Simpson, Shulkin's chief of staff, told colleagues Friday morning that she is retiring after 32 years at the agency and more than two years as Shulkin's most senior aide. Shulkin confirmed the move to USA TODAY and said he intends to continue in his post and remains committed to fulfilling President Trump's agenda in overhauling the VA.
