Science advisor to President Donald Trump Dr Scott Atlas is leaving his White House post. Atlas attacked science-based public health measures and clashed repeatedly with other members of the coronavirus taskforce. He joined the White House in the summer and his appointment was meant to be a temporary one.
The Stanford University neuroradiologist, who had no formal experience in public health or infectious diseases, resigned, the White House confirmed.
Atlas has clashed with top government scientists, including Dr Anthony Fauci and Dr Deborah Birx, and resisted stronger efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. The virus has killed over 267,000 in the US.
Atlas, who had called on residents of Michigan to rise up against government-imposed restrictions, opposed mask-wearing and stay-at-home orders. Atlas also said that the US should aim to achieve herd immunity.
Atlas tweeted his letter of resignation on Monday and wrote, "I sincerely wish the new team all the best as they guide the nation through these trying, polarized times."