Sam Clovis, a conservative blogger and radio host who was nominated for the position of the USDA’s chief scientist, has withdrawn his nomination due to his ties to the Russia investigation currently being led by Robert Mueller. The Washington Post reports that Clovis sent a letter to the White House withdrawing his name for consideration.
“The political climate inside Washington has made it impossible for me to receive balanced and fair consideration for this position,” wrote Clovis. “The relentless assaults on you and your team seem to be a blood sport that only increases with intensity each day.”