State Department Science Envoy Resigns Over Trump Attacks on ‘Core Values’

WASHINGTON (CN) – The State Department's science envoy Daniel Kammen resigned Wednesday, citing President Donald Trump's attacks on core U.S. values after the violence in Charlottesville, Virginia.

"Your response to Charlottesville enables racism, sexism & harms our country and planet," Kammen said in a tweet late Wednesday morning.

Attached to the post was a copy of his resignation letter addressed to the president, which spelled out "Impeach" with the first letter of all seven paragraphs.

Kammen’s letter calls out Trump’s failure to condemn white supremacists and neo-Nazis.

"Particularly troubling to me is how your response to Charlottesville is consistent with a broader pattern of behavior that enables sexism and racism, and disregards the welfare of all Americans, the global community and the planet," Kammen's letter states.

Kammen tied that to "consequences" for his duties as the State Department's science envoy.

"Your decision to abdicate the leadership opportunities and the job creation benefits of the Paris Climate Accord, and to undermine energy and environmental research are not acceptable to me," his letter said.

Kammen said continuing his role under Trump's administration would conflict with the principles of the oath of allegiance he adheres to.

Kammen’s letter notes that he has worked in government since 1996, including at the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency, and in a number of roles at the State Department.

Science envoys generally serve for a year, according to the Science Envoy Program's website. The program brings together prominent scientists and engineers to "leverage their expertise and networks to forge connections and identify opportunities for sustained international cooperation."

Kammen directs the Renewable and Appropriate Energy Laboratory at the University of California at Berkeley, where he teaches in the Energy and Resources Group and the Goldman School of Public Policy.

The White House and State Department did not immediately respond to emailed requests for comment. Kammen also did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.

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