Senior State Department Advisor Michael Anton Expected to Leave This Fall

Michael Anton, the director of the State Department's Policy Planning Staff and a senior foreign policy strategist in President Donald Trump's administration, is set to leave his position this fall after completing the administration's national security strategy. Anton has played a crucial role in shaping U.S. foreign policy, including leading negotiations with Iran on its nuclear program and participating in talks with Russia over the Ukraine conflict. Despite rumors of internal friction and frustration related to hiring decisions and being passed over for the deputy national security advisor role, both Anton and State Department officials have denied these claims, praising his trusted advisory role. Anton has been a key figure in the MAGA movement and previously served in the National Security Council during Trump's first term. It remains unclear whether Anton will exit the administration entirely or transition to another role. His departure marks a significant change in the administration’s strategic planning and foreign policy team.