Key facts
- Deputy chief of staff James Braid is leaving the White House.
- Braid has extensive experience working with Congress and within the Trump administration.
Deputy chief of staff James Braid is leaving the White House. Braid previously served in policy roles for Senator JD Vance and as chief of staff for several House Republicans.
James Braid's departure removes a seasoned congressional liaison from the White House, potentially impacting the administration's ability to navigate legislative challenges and maintain relationships with lawmakers.
Deputy chief of staff James Braid is set to depart the White House. His departure follows that of press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who announced her exit last week.
Braid's background includes significant experience on Capitol Hill, having served as a top policy aide to Senator JD Vance. He also held chief of staff positions for former Representatives Matt Rosendale and Ken Buck, and deputy chief of staff roles for Representative Mark Sanford and then-Representative Ted Budd. Additionally, he was the policy director for the House Freedom Caucus.
During his time in the first Trump administration, Braid was noted for his ability to bridge the gap between "Trumpworld" and traditional Republican politics, acting as a "Trump translator" for lawmakers. He was described as a direct enforcer in the MAGA style but possessed the necessary relationships to influence policy.
Braid played a role in significant legislative initiatives, including the president's signature domestic legislation, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and more recently, assisted in advancing a bipartisan housing bill.