Gen. John Kelly Takes Command of White House Staff

New White House Chief of Staff John Kelly shakes hands with President Trump at his swearin
EVAN VUCCI/AP

Gen. John Kelly was sworn into office at the White House Monday morning, taking the position of White House chief of staff.

The ceremony was closed to the press, but photographers were called in afterward to mark the occasion.

When asked for comment, President Trump said Kelly was “fantastic” and would do a “spectacular job” in his new position.

Later in the morning, Kelly and Trump met with the president’s entire cabinet.

Trump praised Kelly’s six month leadership of the Department of Homeland Security, calling the results “nothing short of miraculous.” He also predicted that Kelly would be “one of the greatest ever” chiefs of staff.

“We’re going to have a good time but much more importantly we’re going to work hard and we’re going to make America Great Again,” Trump said.

Despite the drama surrounding the White House, Trump touted positive economic and job numbers as proof that his administration is succeeding.

“Overall, I think we’re doing incredibly well,” he said. “The economy is doing incredibly well, and many other things.  So we’re starting from a really good base.”

Trump’s choice of Kelly has earned praise from both political parties and has the respect of many in Washington, DC.

Skeptical members of the media continue to voice doubt that Kelly can stabilize the administration where former White House chief of staff Reince Priebus failed.

“We’re doing very well. We have a tremendous base. We have a tremendous group of support. The country is optimistic,” he said. “And I think the general will just add to it.”

 

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