U.S. Interior Secretary Resigns

On Saturday, December 15, Donald Trump, the President of the United States, announced that Ryan Zinke, the Secretary of the Interior, will resign from his position by the end of this month. In a tweet, Trump praised Zinke's service in this role. However, the President stated that Zinke's successor will be announced next week. Ryan Zinke, who has a background in the U.S. Marine Corps and served in Congress, faced allegations of administrative misconduct. These allegations have led to investigations regarding Zinke's use of national park helicopters and private jets. Another issue raised was the cost of renovations within Zinke's office. The U.S. Department of the Interior oversees federal lands, including American national parks. While Trump announced Zinke's resignation, it was also revealed last week that John Kelly, the White House Chief of Staff, will resign by the end of this year. Trump announced yesterday that Mick Mulvaney has been chosen as his interim Chief of Staff. Mulvaney currently heads the Office of Management and Budget and is expected to resign from this position to take on the role of White House Chief of Staff. Trump tweeted that Mulvaney has done an outstanding job in the administration. He also praised General John Kelly, calling him a 'great patriot' and noted that Kelly has served the country honorably. Previously, Trump had stated that Kelly would remain in his position until 2020.