A senior official from the State Department, instrumental in shaping key foreign policy actions under President Donald Trump, is stepping down from his role. This departure highlights the shifting dynamics within Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s close advisors.
The announcement comes shortly before the pivotal November 3 midterm elections, as the administration grapples with pressing diplomatic issues across Latin America, economic sanctions, and updates to foreign assistance programs.
The departing official significantly contributed to Trump’s foreign agenda, particularly in intricate negotiations regarding Venezuela and Cuba, while also driving reforms in the federal international aid framework.
Jeremy Lewin, the 29-year-old director of policy planning at the State Department, revealed on Tuesday his decision to leave for the private sector. He has transitioned from Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency to a vital role in shaping policy.
“After nearly two years, I am leaving the @StateDept to return to the private sector. It has been the privilege of a lifetime to work for @POTUS Trump and @SecRubio, and I’m eternally grateful for their trust in me to execute their foreign policy vision,” Lewin stated on X.
He further remarked, “President Trump has permanently transformed US foreign policy to prioritize Americans’ safety and drive peace in key areas.” Lewin plans to maintain his support for the administration as a private citizen.
As one of Rubio’s main advisors, Lewin focused on policies regarding Venezuela and Cuba—two pivotal countries in the administration’s strategic approach to the Western Hemisphere. Following the January 3 capture of Nicolás Maduro, Lewin was integral to crafting a new diplomatic stance toward Venezuela.
He also engaged in discussions with Cuba, continuing the administration’s economic pressure while seeking constructive relations.
Before his role as director of policy planning, Lewin served as acting under secretary managing foreign assistance and humanitarian affairs, overseeing significant changes following the decision to dismantle the U.S. Agency for International Development.
Lewin began his journey within the administration through DOGE, becoming one of the youngest officials tasked with executing Trump’s reform agenda. Some foreign assistance programs that were eliminated were later reinstated, restructured, or placed under State Department control.
His departure follows a recent investigation by WIRED, which raised questions about his federal employment documentation amid his oversight of USAID personnel decisions. While the report indicated an initial recognition issue within USAID’s human resources, Lewin asserted he was duly appointed and resolved any paperwork discrepancies.
There remains no clear link between the investigation and his choice to leave the administration.
With Lewin’s exit, a significant advisor departs Rubio’s team at a time when Washington must navigate its complex relationships with Venezuela and Cuba. While Lewin is set to return to the private sector, details about his next position remain undisclosed.
