James Braid to depart White House as legislative director

James Braid, the White House Director of Legislative Affairs, is set to depart the Trump administration in September. Braid has served as the primary liaison between the West Wing and Capitol Hill during President Trump’s second term. He is expected to transition into the private sector.

Braid, a former aide to Vice President JD Vance, has been credited with helping the administration navigate a closely divided Congress to pass major legislation, including the “One Big Beautiful Bill” tax cuts and the GENIUS Act cryptocurrency legislation. His departure comes less than three months before the midterm elections, which may complicate the administration's ability to advance its remaining legislative priorities.

This exit follows the recent announcement that White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt will also leave her position at the end of August. These high-profile departures occur as the administration faces challenges including low public approval ratings, high fuel prices, and ongoing conflict with Iran.