Rick Snyder: "Lack of civility makes this too disruptive."
Former Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder, feeling the blowback from critics, on Wednesday said he's withdrawn from his appointment Harvard fellowship appointment, which was supposed to start Monday.
"I have informed the HKennedy Sch that I am turning down its offer as Snr Res Fellow," he tweeted. "It would have been exciting to share my experiences, both positive and negative; our current political environment and its lack of civility makes this too disruptive. I wish them the best."
Harvard's recent announcement of the year-long fellowship at its Taubman Center for State and Local Government triggered outcry from critics, who had concerns about Snyder's links to the Flint water scandal, which is still being investigated.
Those speaking out against the appointment included Piper Kerman, author of “Orange is the New Black,” Flint activist Mari Copeny, known as “Little Miss Flint,” and the magazine Current Affairs, according to the Detroit Free Press.
Jeffrey Liebman, director of the Taubman Center, said an announcement last week:
“Governor Snyder brings his significant expertise in management, public policy, and promoting civility to Harvard Kennedy School. We are excited that he will be joining the Taubman Center and confident that he will bring tremendous value to us and our students.”
