Dozens of senior career diplomats at the U.S. State Department have resigned, effective midday Monday, following directives from President-elect Donald Trump’s team, signaling a clear break from the policies of the Biden administration.
According to The Washington Post, the resignations aim to facilitate a decisive shift in the department’s direction, with Trump’s administration preparing for a significant overhaul in its global diplomatic approach.
The departing officials include John Bass, Undersecretary for Management and Acting Political Affairs Officer, and Geoff Pyatt, Assistant Secretary for Energy Resources. This move represents an exodus of highly decorated Foreign Service veterans, reflecting Trump’s ambition to restructure U.S. foreign policy radically.
A Trump transition spokesperson defended the decision, stating:
“It is entirely appropriate for the incoming administration to seek officials who align with President Trump’s vision of prioritizing America’s workers and interests. There are many failures to address, and this requires a committed team with shared goals.”
Key priorities for Trump’s administration include:
- Ending the war in Ukraine
- Imposing tariffs on allies and adversaries
- Reinforcing the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas
- Deporting millions of undocumented immigrants
The Trump team has also authorized the appointment of over 20 senior officials to assume leadership of vacated divisions, many of whom previously served in key roles during Trump’s first term.
Incoming Secretary of State nominee Senator Marco Rubio has vowed to align the State Department with Trump’s “America First” agenda, emphasizing its diminished influence over the last two decades. In his confirmation hearing, Rubio stated:
“We must reclaim our seat at the table when decisions are made and transform the State Department into a hub of creative ideas and effective implementation.”
The transition also sees Lisa Kenna, a key figure from Trump’s first term, poised to assume the role of Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs, indicating continuity with Trump’s prior foreign policy approach.
