Amaryllis Fox Kennedy, former CIA officer and daughter-in-law of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., announced her departure from two senior intelligence positions in the Trump administration. Fox Kennedy had served as Deputy Director of National Intelligence for Policy and Capabilities and as Associate Director for Intelligence and International Affairs at the Office of Management and Budget.
Her exit prompted speculation that disagreements over the administration’s approach to the conflict with Iran influenced her decision. Multiple media reports cited anonymous sources suggesting internal friction over foreign policy.
Fox Kennedy publicly rejected these claims on social media, emphasizing her continued support for President Trump. “Make no mistake about it – I stand with the President EVERY STEP OF THE WAY,” she wrote, calling the reports “hogwash.”
She explained that family considerations were the primary factor in stepping down, highlighting her desire to focus on raising her children after years in government and on the campaign trail. She described motherhood as “God’s greatest gift” and cited the need to ensure her family’s well-being.
Tulsi Gabbard, Director of National Intelligence, praised Fox Kennedy’s contributions and confirmed that she will continue to serve on the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board, even after leaving her daily government responsibilities. Fox Kennedy first gained public attention during Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s 2024 presidential campaign, which she helped manage before he ultimately endorsed Trump.
Before entering politics, Fox Kennedy had a career in counterterrorism operations as an undercover CIA officer following the September 11 attacks. She is also the author of a memoir detailing her CIA experiences and a former host of the Netflix series The Business of Drugs. Her departure comes amid broader changes in the administration’s intelligence team as officials navigate ongoing international tensions.