Andy Baker Leaving Trump Administration

Andy Baker, who serves as Deputy National Security Adviser, is set to exit the Trump administration, as confirmed by the Daily Caller.

According to a source close to Baker, he has a young family and plans to leave in the upcoming weeks. He has decided to stay longer than anticipated in order to assist with the transition of White House staff. Baker has also held the position of national security advisor to Vice President J.D. Vance.

In a notable move, Mike Needham will be promoted to deputy national security adviser, while Cliff Sims will take over as national security adviser to Vice President Vance. Needham has effectively been in this role since spring, and Sims replaced Baker earlier this summer, as reported by a source close to Baker.

Baker expressed his gratitude, saying, “This has been an amazing journey. I’m proud of everything we’ve accomplished and, of course, I’m so grateful to the president, the vice president, and Secretary Rubio. I won’t be far away,” to the Caller.

A report by Axios first brought this news to light.

Baker is notably the first individual to serve as both the White House National Security Advisor and the Vice President’s National Security Advisor, having worked with Vance during his time as a senator as well.

Vance praised Baker, stating, “Andy is an extraordinarily talented and deeply thoughtful advisor who has served the president and me with distinction. He is an essential member of the administration’s national security team.” He continued, “In the more than three years that Andy has been by my side, I have always valued his advice and appreciated the difficult work he has done to ensure America is the safest, most secure, and most capable nation on earth.”

Reports indicate that Baker is looking to transition into the private sector.

His resignation comes amid ongoing tensions between the administration and Iran, where Baker has played a significant role in negotiations. Vice President Vance has been at the forefront of these discussions between the United States and Iran.

Both Needham and Vance noted in statements to the Caller that Baker was a close friend.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio commented, “Andy was a valuable asset and key member of the President’s national security team that made great strides in advancing the America First policy. Throughout all of his successes, Andy has been a trusted, loyal and valued advisor, and I wish him the best in his future endeavors.”