White House deputy chief of staff Taylor Budowich, a key figure in shaping the Trump administration’s message, is stepping away from his role.

According to the Washington Examiner, Budowich, who also served as a top communications aide and worked on Trump’s 2024 campaign, is leaving to pursue opportunities in the private sector. Axios first reported his exit, and the White House confirmed the news with statements from several high-ranking officials.

The departure marks the end of a significant chapter for Budowich, who has been a linchpin in the administration’s efforts to promote its agenda. His influence extended beyond communications, touching various facets of policy coordination and public outreach.

High Praise from Administration Insiders

Chief of staff Susie Wiles expressed personal and professional regret over Budowich’s exit, calling him a “dear friend” and noting President Trump’s high regard for him. Her words, “I hate to see him go, but obviously wish him well,” carry a tone of genuine loss mixed with respect for his future endeavors.

Vice President JD Vance didn’t hold back either, describing Budowich as an “invaluable asset” relied upon countless times during a remarkable first year. Vance credited him with steering the communications team to highlight what he called “truly historic accomplishments” of Trump’s second term.

Vance also pointed to Budowich’s broader role in aligning Cabinet agencies and the Office of Public Liaison, a nod to his behind-the-scenes impact. Such glowing reviews suggest a void that won’t be easily filled, especially in an administration often battling hostile narratives.

A Track Record of Loyalty and Impact

Budowich’s resume within the Trump orbit is extensive, from founding the MAGA Inc. super PAC to leading Securing American Greatness, which funneled over $600 million into last year’s campaign. That kind of financial muscle doesn’t come without deep trust from the top.

His earlier stint as chief of staff to Donald Trump Jr. further cements his status as a longtime ally of the family. This isn’t just a hired gun; it’s someone woven into the fabric of the movement.

Other aides like Stephen Miller, who dubbed him “true MAGA faithful,” and Dan Scavino, who called him a “vital asset in Trump 2.0,” echo the sentiment of an indispensable team player. Their words paint a picture of a man who didn’t just clock in but shaped the very identity of this administration.

Navigating Controversy with Poise

Budowich hasn’t been a stranger to scrutiny, having been subpoenaed during the congressional probe into the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. He also testified in the investigation concerning Trump’s handling of classified documents, showing he’s been in the thick of political storms.

More recently, he and other aides faced a lawsuit from the Associated Press after denying access to the news outlet until it referred to the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. It’s the kind of petty standoff that fuels critics of the administration’s media tactics, though one might argue it’s a stand against progressive overreach in language policing.

These episodes don’t define Budowich’s tenure, but they highlight the contentious arena he’s operated in. Walking that tightrope between loyalty and public firestorms takes a certain grit, which he’s evidently shown.

A Legacy of Service and What’s Next

As Budowich transitions to the private sector, the administration loses a seasoned operator who bridged campaign fervor with governance. His ability to manage communications while juggling high-stakes coordination roles leaves big shoes to fill.

The tributes from Vance, Wiles, Miller, and Scavino aren’t just polite farewells; they’re a recognition of a rare blend of strategy and steadfastness. One can’t help but wonder if his next chapter will keep him close to the political fray, given his deep roots in this world.

Budowich’s exit is a reminder that even the most dedicated warriors of any cause eventually seek new battlegrounds. While the White House recalibrates, his departure signals both an end and a beginning, with the promise of “big things ahead,” as Vance aptly put it.