USDA science pick, faulted for poor credentials, withdraws after being implicated in Russia probe

Sam Clovis (CNN image)

Controversial nominee Sam Clovis has withdrawn his name from consideration as the Department of Agriculture's chief scientist after his name surfaced in the ongoing Russian probe. Clovis, who serves as the USDA's senior White House advisor, was already widely criticized for having no scientific experience; this week the news broke that "he was one of the top officials on the Trump campaign aware of efforts by foreign policy adviser George Papadopoulos to broker a relationship between the campaign and Russian officials," The Washington Post reports. Clovis didn't resign as the White House advisor for the USDA.

In his letter to President Trump, Clovis said "The relentless assaults on you and your team seem to be a blood sport that only increases in intensity each day. As I am focused on your success and the success of this Administration, I do not want to be a distraction or negative influence, particularly with so much important work left to do for the American people." Click here for the full text.

White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters that "We respect Mr. Clovis' decision to withdraw his nomination," CNN reports. When a reporter asked if President Trump was still comfortable with Clovis serving as the USDA advisor, Sanders said, "I'm not aware of any change that would be necessary."