Trump Announces Major Shakeup at White House Personnel Office
President Donald Trump has announced a significant leadership change at the White House Presidential Personnel Office, bringing longtime aide Dan Scavino into one of the most influential positions in the administration. Scavino, who has served as Deputy Chief of Staff and one of Trump’s most trusted advisers since his first term, will now oversee hiring and appointments across the federal government.
The move marks one of the most sweeping reorganizations of Trump’s second-term White House team to date. Sergio Gor, who previously led the personnel office, is being nominated to serve as U.S. Ambassador to India. Officials describe the transition as part of a broader effort to streamline government staffing and ensure that appointees reflect the administration’s policy priorities and loyalty to Trump’s agenda.
Scavino’s expanded role cements his position as one of the president’s closest confidants, a relationship that stretches back to Trump’s early business ventures and the 2016 campaign. Known for his deep understanding of both Trump’s communication style and political instincts, Scavino is expected to play a key role in shaping the makeup of senior federal leadership going forward.
The shakeup also comes at a time of growing debate in Washington over the pace and philosophy behind Trump’s personnel strategy. Supporters argue that the president is ensuring competent, mission-aligned individuals fill critical posts without bureaucratic obstruction. Critics, however, worry that consolidating appointment power within a small circle could weaken traditional vetting processes and reduce institutional independence.
Within the White House, aides say the president views this overhaul as essential to “getting results” after years of what he has called entrenched resistance from unelected officials. Trump has repeatedly said that the federal workforce must serve the people, not political or bureaucratic interests.
The decision underscores Trump’s hands-on approach to reshaping Washington, one that prioritizes loyalty, performance, and accountability. With Scavino at the helm of personnel operations, the administration signals its intent to maintain tight control over government appointments and drive its policy objectives with greater speed and unity.