PRIEBUS OUT: Trump names Homeland Security secretary as new chief of staff
"I am pleased to inform you that I have just named General/Secretary John F Kelly as White House Chief of Staff," Trump wrote in the first of two tweets just before 5 p.m. ET. "He is a Great American..."
"...and a Great Leader," he continued in his second tweet. "John has also done a spectacular job at Homeland Security. He has been a true star of my Administration."
In a third tweet, Trump thanked Priebus for his service.
"I would like to thank Reince Priebus for his service and dedication to his country," Trump posted. "We accomplished a lot together and I am proud of him!"
The episode marked the end of a weeklong saga involving Priebus and new White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci. Priebus had worked hard to block Scaramucci's appointment, but Trump decided to hire him anyways. Immediately after Scaramucci's hiring, White House press secretary Sean Spicer announced he was resigning. Spicer was Priebus' closest White House ally based on both of their past work for the Republican National Committee.