White House Social Secretary Jeremy Bernard announced that he will step down following a scheduled Japan State Dinner next month. Bernard made headlines in the LGBT community and beyond as the first male, and openly gay, social secretary in White House history. Bernard was featured in a profile in Vogue in February where he talked about his job which takes him from the East Wing to West Wing constantly. His need to bridge and function on behalf of the two wings of the White House gives Bernard a unique view compared to most other positions on the White House staff.
Mrs. Obama issued the following statement, “For the last four years, Jeremy has worked tirelessly to open the doors of the White House to as many people as possible and to make each and every event in the White House one to remember, not only for Barack and me, but for the tens of thousands of guests who pass through our doors each year. I was lucky to have such a talented individual on my team, and I am equally lucky to have made a lifelong friend in Jeremy. Jeremy will be missed, and Barack and I wish him the very best in all of his future endeavors.”
A replacement for Bernard is expected to be chosen in the coming weeks. Many expect Bernard to join the impending Hillary Clinton presidential campaign in some capacity.
