White House counsel is said to be stepping down
White House counsel Kathryn Ruemmler is reportedly leaving her job in mid-May.
The New York Times has the report, citing unnamed administration officials. Ruemmler, who assumed the position in June 2011, has spent more time in the job than any other White House counsel during the Obama administration.
Ruemmler was reportedly instrumental in getting Senate Democrats to change filibuster rules to allow for confirmation of stalled judicial nominees, the Times says. In internal debates, she advocated keeping secret internal documents, such as memos from the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel. She also advised President Obama he could make recess appointments during pro forma sessions of the Senate, an issue that is now pending before the U.S. Supreme Court.
Kirkland & Ellis partner W. Neil Eggleston is a leading contender to replace Ruemmler, Legal Times (sub. req.) reported last month, citing five lawyers who spoke on background. The Hill’s Briefing Room blog noted the report.
