In a dramatic first-day move, President Donald Trump announced plans to lay off thousands of White House appointees deemed misaligned with his “Make America Great Again” vision.
Taking to his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump declared his intention to restructure the administration, emphasizing his commitment to a unified team sharing his objectives for the country’s future.
“Our first day in the White House is not over yet! My Presidential Personnel Office is actively in the process of identifying and removing over a thousand Presidential Appointees from the previous Administration, who are not aligned with our vision to Make America Great Again,” Trump wrote.
He also named four individuals who had been dismissed immediately, including Jose Andres from the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, Mark Milley from the National Infrastructure Advisory Council, Brian Hook from the Wilson Center for Scholars, and Keisha Lance Bottoms from the President’s Export Council.
“Let this serve as Official Notice of Dismissal for these 4 individuals, with many more coming soon,” Trump added.
Trump’s decision comes amidst his long-held criticism of what he considers disloyal or counterproductive appointees within the government.
General Mark Milley’s dismissal, in particular, follows a history of public disagreements between the two.
Milley, who served as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during Joe Biden’s administration, had received protective measures from Biden before leaving office.
Trump, however, maintained that Milley’s actions warranted severe repercussions.
Among other senior officials asked to step down was John Bass, acting undersecretary for political affairs, whose responsibilities spanned critical regions, including Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
Trump’s move highlights his resolve to ensure a team that fully supports his policies and priorities.
While controversial, Trump’s shakeup reflects his straightforward approach to governance.
His decisions are expected to provoke mixed reactions, with supporters praising his determination and critics questioning the potential implications for bipartisan collaboration.
Trump’s focus remains on assembling a team committed to advancing his agenda, which he asserts will benefit the nation and secure long-term growth.
“This is about ensuring that every member of the administration is aligned with the goals of restoring America’s greatness,” said a senior adviser.
Trump’s early actions signal a presidency poised to prioritize loyalty, efficiency, and alignment, as he seeks to lay the groundwork for what he describes as “the most transformative administration in modern history.”