Stanford Issues Harsh Critique Of Scott Atlas

STANFORD, CA — A senior fellow at Stanford’s Hoover Institution who currently serves as a member of the White House coronavirus task force drew a rare terse rebuke from the university of one of its own Monday.

Atlas was appointed to the task force in August by President Donald Trump despite the Stanford neuroradiologist having no experience in epidemiology or infectious diseases.

Atlas has by all accounts become the task force’s most influential voice, advocating for a controversial “herd immunity” strategy for dealing with the pandemic and downplaying the importance of mask-wearing and social distancing.

Atlas’ views are considered inconsistent with mainstream science, and his role in the administration has alarmed public health experts who believe the laissez-faire approach it has adopted has been a significant factor in the explosion of the virus in recent weeks.

The United States on Monday reported 166,581 new cases and is averaging 155,442 cases per day over the past week, an 82 percent spike over the average from two weeks earlier, The New York Times reports.

Stanford’s statement echoed those alarms.

“The university has been asked to comment on recent statements made by Dr. Scott Atlas, a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution who is on leave of absence from that position,” Stanford’s statement said.

“Stanford’s position on managing the pandemic in our community is clear. We support using masks, social distancing, and conducting surveillance and diagnostic testing. We also believe in the importance of strictly following the guidance of local and state health authorities.

“Dr. Atlas has expressed views that are inconsistent with the university’s approach in response to the pandemic. Dr. Atlas’s statements reflect his personal views, not those of the Hoover Institution or the university.”