John Kelly’s days as White House chief of staff may be numbered, according to reports from NBC News and ABC News.
ABC News cited unnamed sources familiar with the matter who said President Donald Trump is “looking at possible replacements” for Kelly and that Trump has discussed Kelly with many top advisers. The sources, in ABC’s words, said “Kelly has continued to grow distant with the president.”
Seven unnamed “people familiar with the discussions” told NBC News that Kelly could leave the administration soon. The report detailed Kelly’s clashes with first lady Melania Trump’s office and others in the White House.
Three unnamed sources told NBC News described “active” conversations about replacing Kelly.
Both publications said Vice President Mike Pence’s chief of staff Nick Ayers was among those being considered to take over for Kelly.
Also potentially on the chopping block: Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen, who replaced Kelly at DHS and is an ally of his. Both reports, as well as previous reporting Monday, said she may soon be asked to resign.
