WASHINGTON – U.S. Commerce Secretary John Bryson, who went on medical leave earlier this month after running into two cars when he suffered a seizure while behind the wheel, has resigned his post.

“I have concluded that the seizure I suffered on June 9th could be a distraction from my performance as Secretary and that our country would be better served by a change in leadership of the Department,” he said in a letter to President Barack Obama.

The president accepted Bryson’s resignation.

“As Secretary, John fought tirelessly for our nation’s businesses and workers, helping to bolster our exports and promote American manufacturing and products at home and abroad,” Obama said in a statement issued by the White House.

Bryson’s deputy, Dr. Rebecca Blank, will serve as acting commerce secretary.

John Bryson has been on medical leave since June 11, two days after he was involved in two auto accidents in California that he attributed to a seizure.

After the second crash, police found him unconscious in his car.

Authorities said there was no evidence Bryson was under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The former energy executive was appointed commerce secretary last October. EFE