Sources: Lee quit amid tensions over Patent Office funding; Politico, June 7, 2017

Nancy Scola, Politico; Sources: Lee quit amid tensions over Patent Office funding

"Intrigue continues to surround Michelle Lee's abrupt resignation Tuesday as director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, with some sources saying it was triggered by the Trump administration's efforts to tap her agency's funding to pay for services at the Commerce Department."

The U.S. patent office has named its interim successor to Michelle Lee; Washington Post, June 7, 2017

Brian Fung, Washington Post; The U.S. patent office has named its interim successor to Michelle Lee

"The Commerce Department has tapped Joseph Matal, an associate solicitor at the U.S. Patent and Trademark office, to succeed Michelle Lee as interim director of the intellectual property agency, according to the USPTO.

Matal's appointment comes one day after Lee abruptly resigned from her position. As a temporary replacement, Matal does not need to be confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

Matal has served at the patent office for nearly five years, representing the agency in federal court."