Deputy National Security Adviser Andy Baker Leaves White House

White House deputy national security adviser Andy Baker will leave the Trump administration in the coming weeks to enter the private sector. Baker, a former State Department Foreign Service officer, plans to join America Global Strategies, a consulting firm co-founded by former National Security Adviser Robert O’Brien.

Baker concurrently served as the national security adviser to Vice President J.D. Vance, a role he held since Vance was in the Senate. During his tenure, Baker helped craft the National Security Strategy, advocated for a more restrained U.S. foreign policy, and participated in the first face-to-face talks with Iran in Pakistan. He also helped draft Vice President Vance's speech for the Munich Security Conference.

His departure follows a period of restructuring and turnover within the National Security Council, including the June exits of top officials overseeing Europe and Latin America. Baker reportedly extended his stay by several months to facilitate the transition of his successors. Cliff Sims has succeeded Baker as national security adviser to the Vice President, while Mike Needham has transitioned into the role of deputy national security adviser.

Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised Baker's contributions to the administration's national security team and the America First agenda. Other recent White House departures include press secretary Karoline Leavitt and counsel David Warrington.