President Biden‘s domestic policy advisor, Susan Rice, is stepping down before the President is expected to launch his re–election campaign this week.
The White House announced Monday that Rice would be departing her post as Domestic Policy Advisor, a role she had held since Biden took office in January 2021.
In a statement, Biden praised Rice for her tireless efforts and determined leadership.
“We expanded and strengthened the Affordable Care Act, released a comprehensive national mental health strategy, and finally enabled Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices for seniors and cap the cost of insulin at $35,” the statement said. “We’ve taken historic actions to reduce gun violence and advance police reform. We are addressing our failed approach to marijuana. We have embedded equity into the work of the entire federal government.”
The President thanked Rice for her service, counsel and friendship, adding that her record of public service makes history.
“But what sets her apart as a leader and colleague is the seriousness with which she takes her role and the urgency and tenacity she brings, her bias towards action and results, and the integrity, humility and humor with which she does this work,” he said.
Rice, on her part, thanked Biden for trusting and empowering her to serve in his administration.
“I love the team @DPC and in the @WhiteHouse,” she wrote on Twitter. “There are no more dedicated public servants. I am so proud of all we have been able to accomplish together for the American people.”
According to Politico, Neera Tanden, Biden’s staff secretary and senior adviser, is among those being considered to replace Rice. However, no replacement has been finalized.
Rice previously served as National Security Advisor and UN Ambassador under President Obama and was U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for African Affairs, and Director for International Organizations and Peacekeeping at the National Security Council under President Clinton.
Rice‘s departure has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising her accomplishments and others questioning the timing of her departure.
For now, Rice‘s legacy and commitment to public service remain unchallenged. She has certainly left a lasting mark on the Biden administration, and will surely continue to make an impact in the years to come.
