Key Takeaways:

• Chef José Andrés clarifies he resigned from the President’s Council before Trump’s claims.
• Trump stated Andrés was “fired” as part of dismissing over a thousand prior appointees.
• Andrés emphasizes the importance of bipartisan cooperation in promoting health and fitness.

Chef José Andrés has officially responded to claims made by Donald Trump, asserting that he was "fired" as a presidential appointee. Trump took to social media on Tuesday, declaring that Andrés, along with other appointees, was dismissed to align with his new administration’s vision of making America great again. Andrés, who served on the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition under President Biden, clarified through a post on Twitter that he had submitted his resignation the previous week, indicating that his two-year term was already completed. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside fellow council members, whom he described as hardworking volunteers committed to nonpartisan initiatives focused on promoting health access for children.

In the wake of Trump’s announcement, Andrés emphasized the need for leaders to prioritize unity and collective progress over political divisiveness. "May God give you the wisdom, Mr. President, to put politics and name calling aside… and instead lift up the everyday people working to bring America together. Let’s build longer tables,” he stated, reiterating the council's dedication to its mission of advocating for fitness and health, which he regards as bipartisan issues.

Trump's post that included Andrés was part of a broader attempt to remove many appointed individuals from the prior administration, which he characterized as those “not aligned with our vision.” This incident highlights the continuing tensions in political circles, particularly around the changing administrations and their respective appointments. To read further about this notable exchange, visit The Hill.