Trump dismisses surgeon general

 In this July 25, 2016, file photo, Dr. Vivek Murthy speaks during a news conference at Orange County Mosquito Control, in Orlando, Fla.  The Trump administration has relieved Dr. Vivek Murthy of his duties as U.S. Surgeon General.
In this July 25, 2016, file photo, Dr. Vivek Murthy speaks during a news conference at Orange County Mosquito Control, in Orlando, Fla. The Trump administration has relieved Dr. Vivek Murthy of his duties as U.S. Surgeon General.

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration has relieved Dr. Vivek Murthy of his duties as U.S. surgeon general.

A spokesman for the Department of Health and Human Services said Murthy was asked to resign after “assisting in a smooth transition” under President Donald Trump.

Murthy was a holdover from the Obama administration.

Murthy’s deputy, Rear Adm. Sylvia Trent-Adams, is serving as acting surgeon general and leader of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps until the Senate confirms a replacement. Her previous positions include being a nurse officer in the U.S. Army.

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Health Department spokesman Alleigh Marre said Murthy will remain a member of the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps.

Murthy said on Facebook that he was humbled and honored to serve. He said serving was the “privilege of a lifetime.”

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