Gottlieb joining Maryland governor’s coronavirus response team

Former Food and Drug Administration head Scott Gottlieb will join Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan’s (R) coronavirus response team, Politico reported Tuesday. 

Hogan said in a statement to the news outlet that he is “thrilled” to have Gottlieb join his team, which he said is made up of top public health experts in the country. 

“Dr. Gottlieb is widely respected on both sides of the aisle, and his expertise will be invaluable for guiding how and when we can responsibly lift restrictions while keeping Marylanders healthy and safe,” Hogan added. 

Gottlieb, even though he is no longer serving in the Trump administration, has become a leading public voice on the coronavirus pandemic.

The 47-year-old physician has used his Twitter platform and cable news appearances to speak out about the pandemic, and has informally advised the White House coronavirus task force. 

He resigned on amicable terms with President Trump in March 2019, citing a desire to spend more time with his family. 

Hogan has also been an early leader on the coronavirus response. The Republican governor declared a state of emergency in Maryland on March 5, more than a week before Trump made a nationwide emergency declaration.