Deputy National Security Advisor of the White House Dismissed

Mira Ricardel, the Deputy National Security Advisor of the White House, has been dismissed from her position. A day before this announcement by the White House, the spokesperson for Donald Trump's wife stated, "She no longer deserves to serve in the White House." Sarah Sanders, the White House spokesperson, told reporters on November 14 that "with her transition to a new role in the government, she will continue to assist the President elsewhere." However, Ms. Sanders did not provide any details regarding Mira Ricardel's new position or role. A day prior to this "transfer," the spokesperson for Melania Trump, the President's wife, directly criticized Ricardel in a statement: "It is the position of the First Lady's office that she no longer deserves to serve in the White House." Just hours before this statement, Mira Ricardel was present at the Diwali celebration (a Hindu festival celebrating the victory of light over darkness) alongside several other government officials and President Trump himself. The Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday that there had been disagreements and disputes between the First Lady's office staff and Ms. Ricardel during Melania Trump's trip to Africa. The President's wife had traveled to several African countries the previous month. The Wall Street Journal reported that these disputes arose over boarding the plane and using consular facilities. A White House official told the Associated Press that Ricardel intended to board the plane and accompany Melania Trump and others to Africa, but it was stated that there was no room for her and several others on the plane. This unnamed White House official said that Ricardel threatened in response that none of the National Security Council members would be sent on this trip. Reuters also published similar statements from a U.S. government official. Additionally, Reuters cited several news sources stating that Mira Ricardel was known for blaming White House staff. American news agencies and media remind that the issuance of a statement criticizing a senior White House staff member by the First Lady's office is an unprecedented action. Reuters notes that although it is well-known that First Ladies sometimes exert pressure on their husbands regarding certain issues and decisions, they usually do not issue statements on such matters. Mira Ricardel was appointed as Deputy National Security Advisor by John Bolton, Trump's National Security Advisor, in April 2018. This position does not require confirmation by the U.S. Senate. Ms. Ricardel began her work in May and served in this position for a total of seven months.