Commerce Secretary John Bryson has officially resigned after taking a leave of absence earlier this month. His resignation comes after a seizure caused two car accidents, prompting the medical leave of absence on June 11th.
Politico reports that Bryson wrote in a letter to Commerce Department staff that:
“I have come to the conclusion that I need to step down to prevent distractions from this critical mission.”
In his resignation letter to President Obama, Bryson wrote, according to the Wall Street Journal :
“This is a critical period for our country’s economy. We much each day continue to support the growth of America’s businesses, exports and manufacturing and the vitally important jobs they create.”
He concluded by saying:
“I have concluded that the seizure I suffered on June 9th could be a distraction from my performance as Secretary and that our country would be better served by a change in leadership of the Department.”
The President also released a statement on Wednesday night, thanking John Bryson for his hard work and dedication to “our nation’s businesses and workers,” noting that he has “proven himself an effective and distinguished leader throughout his career in both the public and private sectors, from his success in the business world to his work leading on issues in the renewable energy industry.”
Obama also stated that Bryson agreed to become a part of his Export Council, which works to strengthen the economy and create good jobs. Politico notes that Rebecca Blank, Bryson’s deputy secretary, will serve as acting Commerce secretary until further notice. Blank also served this role last summer.
Do you think that John Bryson made the right move by resigning his position?
