Sebastian Gorka left his position as a White House counterterrorism adviser on Friday night, according to White House officials. Photo by Gage Skidmore/ Wikimedia Commons

Aug. 26 (UPI) -- Sebastian Gorka abruptly left his position as a White House counterterrorism adviser on Friday evening, administration officials said.

A White House official told CNN Gorka submitted his resignation to White House chief of staff, retired Gen. John Kelly, on Friday following questions about his role in the administration going forward.


Gorka often appeared on television to defend and support President Donald Trump's policies and public statements.

Portions of a resignation letter, in which Gorka expressed displeasure with the direction of the administration, were published in The Federalist, a conservative publication.

RELATED Trump pardons former Maricopa County Sheriff Arpaio

"Given recent events, it is clear to me that forces that do not support the [Make America Great Again] promise are - for now - ascendant within the White House," he wrote. "As a result, the best and most effective way I can support you, Mr. President, is from outside the People's House."

The letter also stated that Gorka was concerned with Trump's foreign policy following Trump's speech Monday night announcing a new strategy for the war in Afghanistan.

"The fact that those who drafted and approved the speech removed any mention of Radical Islam or radical Islamic terrorism proves that a crucial element of your presidential campaign has been lost." he wrote.

RELATED Trump signs memo banning transgender recruits

A White House official told the Washington Post Gorka spoke with Kelly to discuss his exit and requested to hand his departure letter to Trump in person, but was denied.

One White House official said that Gorka didn't resign, but did confirm his departure from the White House.

Others stated Gorka was forced out of the position, as there was "writing on the wall" that Kelly wanted him to leave.

RELATED Bannon out as White House chief strategist

Gorka previously worked at Breitbart News with former White House strategist Steve Bannon, who was left the administration on Aug. 18.