Trump loses key congressional aide James Braid – who’s next?

James Braid, the White House’s top aide responsible for congressional relations, is leaving the administration, POLITICO reports, citing a person familiar with the transition.

As director of legislative affairs, Braid has played a key role in advancing President Donald Trump’s agenda through a narrowly divided Congress. The task has become increasingly challenging as Trump has repeatedly clashed with members of his own Republican Party in both the House and Senate.

Braid’s departure comes as the White House faces growing political turmoil. Trump’s approval ratings have fallen to near-record lows, Republicans are bracing for a difficult midterm election, and several other senior administration officials have either departed or are preparing to leave.

It remains unclear where Braid will go next. Neither Braid nor the White House immediately responded to requests for comment.

Meanwhile, the White House is also preparing for the departure of Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who announced earlier this month that she would step down at the end of August to spend more time with her family. 

Leavitt, who became the youngest White House press secretary in US history at 27, is expected to remain involved as one of Trump’s top outside advisers after leaving her official post.

By Jeyhun Aghazada