Commerce Secretary John Bryson has resigned, telling President Obama he's doing so for health reasons, according to a statement obtained by CNN.
Read the resignation letter (PDF)
Bryson was under investigation for possible felony hit-and-run after allegedly causing two car accidents in California. A Commerce Department spokeswoman said that Bryson, 68, had suffered a seizure when the two accidents occurred Saturday.
Obama has accepted his resignation, according to a statement released by the White House.
His statement in full is below:
Last night I accepted the resignation of John Bryson as Secretary of the Department of Commerce. I want to extend my deepest thanks and appreciation to John for his service over the past months, and wish him and his family the very best.
As Secretary, John fought tirelessly for our nation's businesses and workers, helping to bolster our exports and promote American manufacturing and products at home and abroad. John 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. I am grateful that he brought that invaluable experience and expertise to my administration, and am pleased that he has agreed to continue supporting our efforts to strengthen the economy and create good jobs by serving as a member of my Export Council going forward.
I am confident that Dr. Rebecca Blank will serve the American people well as Acting Secretary and that the Commerce Department staff will continue their tireless work putting forward policies that help our workers and businesses compete.
Read the resignation letter (PDF)
Bryson was under investigation for possible felony hit-and-run after allegedly causing two car accidents in California. A Commerce Department spokeswoman said that Bryson, 68, had suffered a seizure when the two accidents occurred Saturday.
Obama has accepted his resignation, according to a statement released by the White House.
His statement in full is below:
Last night I accepted the resignation of John Bryson as Secretary of the Department of Commerce. I want to extend my deepest thanks and appreciation to John for his service over the past months, and wish him and his family the very best.
As Secretary, John fought tirelessly for our nation's businesses and workers, helping to bolster our exports and promote American manufacturing and products at home and abroad. John 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. I am grateful that he brought that invaluable experience and expertise to my administration, and am pleased that he has agreed to continue supporting our efforts to strengthen the economy and create good jobs by serving as a member of my Export Council going forward.
I am confident that Dr. Rebecca Blank will serve the American people well as Acting Secretary and that the Commerce Department staff will continue their tireless work putting forward policies that help our workers and businesses compete.
