The background: DeVos became the second cabinet member to resign after the violent attack on the Capitol by rioters. Transport Secretary Elaine Chao announced her departure earlier Thursday.
In her resignation letter, DeVos told Trump that “the impact your rhetoric has had” is not mistaken for the violent riots at the Capitol.
DeVos released the resignation letter on Thursday after several reports said that Pence did not intend to continue Trump’s removal under the 25th Amendment. Pence made no public comment or informed top congressional leaders about his position.
The DeVos adviser declined to say whether DeVos spoke directly to Pence or Trump about the situation. The Wall Street Journal reported earlier on DeVos’ views on the issue.
What’s next: House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer have asked Pence to use the 25th Amendment. Pelosi said on Friday that he still hoped to “hear from him as soon as possible with a positive answer as to whether he and the cabinet will honor their oath to the Constitution and the American people.”
Some Democrats, who called for Trump to step down immediately, criticized DeVos and Chao for rather stopping ousting Trump under the 25th Amendment.
House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn accused the two cabinet members of “running away from their responsibilities” by resigning. “If they feel so strongly, they will stay there and wait for this meeting so that they can cast two of the votes needed to call for the 25th Amendment,” Clyburn told CNN.
Farewell words: Sen Elizabeth Elizabeth (D-Mass.) said on Twitter that DeVos was “the worst education minister ever” and that DeVos “would rather stop doing its job of calling for the 25th Amendment.”
Devos responded Thursday morning: “You do not know what you are talking about, @SenWarren.”
DeVos sent an email to the education department on Friday morning to share her statement on Wednesday about the violence at the Capitol and a copy of her resignation letter from Thursday night.
“It has been a privilege to serve American students with you, and I wish you nothing but the best as you support our rising generation.” She draws the note “Onward!”