Stanford Researchers: Not Intimidated by Dr. Atlas Threat

A group of doctors and researchers at Stanford University on Thursday doubled down on their criticism of Dr. Scott Atlas, the White House coronavirus adviser who they say threatened legal action against them for speaking out earlier.

In early September, 78 doctors and researcher signed an open letter to Atlas, saying, "Many of his opinions and statements run counter to establish science, and, by doing so, undermine public-health authorities and the credible science that guides effective public health policy."

Atlas is a radiologist and senior fellow at Stanford University's conservative Hoover Institution.

Atlas, who has no background in infectious diseases, has advocated against wearing masks, for having young people contract the virus to develop "herd immunity" and pushed for reopening schools.

Following their "Dear Colleague" letter, several signers said they received a communication from Atlas' lawyer Marc Kasowitz advising them to issue a press release recanting — or face legal action.

Professor Michael Fischbach posted a copy of the letter on Twitter, and responded, "I stand by everything we said."

Now, CNBC reports, an even larger group has signed onto the letter.

"In addition, we are deeply troubled by the legal threats that Dr. Atlas has made against us in an attempt to intimidate and silence us in the midst of a pandemic," they wrote.

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