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Joe Biden's Cabinet and Administration, 2021–2025

Cabinet secretaries, agency heads and White House staff during his presidency.

Joseph R. Biden Jr.
Joseph R. Biden Jr.

46th President of the United States

Jan 20, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025

Party: Democratic

Vice President: Kamala Harris

Election: Nov 3, 2020. : 306 to 232 for Donald J. Trump. Counted by on Jan 7, 2021.

Congress finished counting the electoral votes at 3:44 a.m. on January 7, 2021, after the attack on the Capitol.

Details

Sources 1 2

Photo

Joseph R. Biden Jr., 2021 · Adam Schultz · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

61posts
79changes over the term
11acting at the end of the term
0vacant at the end of the term

Last changes of the term

  1. Jan 19, 2025Paul Abbate replaced Christopher Wray as FBI Director
  2. Jan 17, 2025Marvin Richardson replaced Steve Dettelbach as ATF Director
  3. Jan 15, 2025Nani Coloretti replaced Shalanda Young as Director of the Office of Management and Budget
  4. Jan 13, 2025Pete Flores replaced Troy Miller as CBP Commissioner
  5. Jan 1, 2025Jane Nishida replaced Michael Regan as EPA Administrator
  6. Nov 30, 2024Carolyn Colvin replaced Martin O'Malley as Commissioner of Social Security

Senate-confirmed appointed acting vacant

White House

White House Chief of Staff

Jeff Zients
Jeff Zientsappointed
Feb 8, 2023 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentFeb 8, 2023 · appointed by the president · after Ron Klain left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator from 2021 to 2022. USA Today reported that his first day was the morning after the State of the Union address of February 7, 2023.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Jeff Zients, 2023 · Executive Office of the President of the United States · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Ron KlainJan 20, 2021 — Feb 8, 2023appointed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term

    ResignationFeb 8, 2023 · Klain said it was "the right time for this team to have fresh leadership", Al Jazeera reported. Biden announced the change on January 27, 2023.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy

Bruce Reedappointed
Jan 20, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Named by the Biden transition on December 22, 2020. AP reported in 2024 that his formal title was Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff. A White House pool report of January 16, 2025 lists him with that title.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5 6

White House Counsel

Ed Siskel
Ed Siskelappointed
Sep 2023 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentSep 2023 · appointed by the president · after Stuart Delery left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Named by Biden on August 22, 2023.

Sources 1 2 3

Photo

Ed Siskel, 2023 · United States Federal Government · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Stuart DeleryJul 2022 — Sep 2023appointed

    AppointmentJul 2022 · appointed by the president · after Dana Remus left

    ResignationSep 2023 · A White House official said the departure had been long planned, AP reported.

    Previously Deputy Counsel to the President.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

  2. Dana RemusJan 20, 2021 — Jul 2022appointed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term

    ResignationJul 2022 · A White House official said that in the short term she planned to spend more time with her husband and toddler son, NPR reported.

    Sources 1 2 3

White House Communications Director

Ben LaBolt
Ben LaBoltappointed
Mar 2023 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentMar 2023 · appointed by the president · after Kate Bedingfield left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Axios reported that he was also named Senior Advisor to the President in August 2024.

Sources 1 2 3

Photo

Ben LaBolt, 2024 · The White House · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Kate BedingfieldJan 20, 2021 — Feb 2023appointed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term

    DepartureFeb 2023

    The White House said on February 10, 2023 that she would leave at the end of February. CBS News reported that the White House had earlier announced she would leave in summer 2022 and that she then decided to stay longer.

    Sources 1 2 3

White House Press Secretary

Karine Jean-Pierre
Karine Jean-Pierreappointed
May 13, 2022 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentMay 13, 2022 · appointed by the president · after Jen Psaki left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Previously Principal Deputy Press Secretary. ABC News reported that she was also named a senior adviser in October 2024.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Karine Jean-Pierre, 2023 · The White House · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Jen PsakiJan 20, 2021 — May 13, 2022appointed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term

    DepartureMay 13, 2022

    Sources 1 2 3 4

National Security Advisor

Jake Sullivan
Jake Sullivanappointed
Jan 20, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sources 1 2

Photo

Jake Sullivan, 2021 · Executive Office of the President of the United States · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Director of the

Nani Coloretti
Nani Colorettiacting
Jan 15, 2025 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentJan 15, 2025 · acting · after Shalanda Young left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Deputy Director of OMB. An OMB filing under the Federal Vacancies Reform Act names her acting director from January 15, 2025. She signed an OMB memorandum dated January 17, 2025 as Acting Director.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Nani Coloretti, 2022 · Executive Office of the President of the United States · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Shalanda YoungMar 17, 2022 — Jan 15, 2025Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentMar 17, 2022 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 15, 2022

    DepartureJan 15, 2025

    UPI reported that Vice President Kamala Harris swore her in on March 17, 2022. An OMB filing under the Federal Vacancies Reform Act gives January 15, 2025 as the day the director post became vacant.

    Sources 1 2 3 4 5 6

  2. Shalanda YoungMar 2021 — Mar 17, 2022acting

    AppointmentMar 2021 · acting · after Rob Fairweather left

    Permanent appointmentMar 17, 2022 · Confirmed by the Senate as director on March 15, 2022 and sworn in on March 17, 2022.

    Confirmed as deputy director by 63 to 37 on March 23, 2021. Government Executive reported that she became acting director after the nomination of Neera Tanden was withdrawn.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

  3. Rob FairweatherJan 20, 2021 — Mar 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverMar 2021 · Shalanda Young became acting director after the Senate confirmed her as deputy director.

    Signed OMB memoranda as acting director from January 20, 2021 to March 24, 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3

Director of the National Economic Council

Lael Brainard
Lael Brainardappointed
Feb 2023 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentFeb 2023 · appointed by the president · after Brian Deese left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Named on February 14, 2023. The Federal Reserve said she resigned as its Vice Chair, effective on or around February 20, 2023. NPR reported on February 26, 2023 that she had started the job that week.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5

Photo

Lael Brainard, 2023 · Executive Office of the United States of America · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Brian DeeseJan 20, 2021 — Feb 2023appointed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term

    DepartureFeb 2023

    Biden announced his departure on February 2, 2023, AP reported.

    Sources 1 2 3

Special Presidential Envoy for Climate

John Kerryappointed
Jan 20, 2021 — Mar 6, 2024

On January 31, 2024 the White House named John Podesta Senior Advisor to the President for International Climate Policy, to take over Kerry's international climate work when Kerry left. He worked from the White House, not the State Department.

Details

AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term

ResignationMar 6, 2024 · Kerry said in January 2024 that he would shift to work on the 2024 election, The Hill reported.

Based at the State Department and a member of the National Security Council.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5 6

White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator

Post ended
Jun 15, 2023 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

The date shown is Jha's last day. No date on which the coordinator post itself closed is on record. CNN reported on June 8, 2023 that the White House was expected to disband its COVID-19 response team. On July 21, 2023 the White House said a new Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response Policy would take over the duties of the COVID-19 Response Team, with Paul Friedrichs as its director as of August 7, 2023.

Sources 1 2 3

  1. Ashish JhaApr 11, 2022 — Jun 15, 2023appointed

    AppointmentApr 11, 2022 · appointed by the president · after Jeff Zients left

    ResignationJun 15, 2023 · A White House official said Jha would return to Brown University, where he had been dean of its School of Public Health, AP reported.

    Brown University said he took a short leave for the White House post and that the appointment would begin on April 5, 2022. AP reported, citing the White House, that his first official day was Monday April 11, 2022.

    Sources 1 2 3 4 5 6

  2. Jeff ZientsJan 20, 2021 — Apr 2022appointed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term

    ResignationApr 2022 · A White House official said Zients "had been trying to move on for some time, but COVID kept throwing curveballs", NPR reported.

    Sources 1 2 3

Vice president and Cabinet

Vice President of the United States

Kamala Harris
Kamala Harriselected
Jan 20, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · elected in November 2024 · from the start of the term

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sources 1

Photo

Kamala Harris, 2021 · Lawrence Jackson · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Secretary of State

Antony Blinken
Antony BlinkenSenate-confirmed
Jan 26, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Jan 26, 2021
Details

AppointmentJan 26, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 26, 2021 · after Daniel Smith left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

His State Department biography says Vice President Harris administered a further oath on January 27, 2021.

Sources 1 2 3

Photo

Antony Blinken, 2024 · U.S. Department of State from United States · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Daniel SmithJan 20, 2021 — Jan 26, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverJan 26, 2021 · Antony Blinken took office.

    Career diplomat. AP reported that he was chosen to serve as acting secretary until Blinken was confirmed.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

Deputy Secretary of State

Kurt Campbell
Kurt CampbellSenate-confirmed
Feb 12, 2024 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Feb 6, 2024
Details

AppointmentFeb 12, 2024 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Feb 6, 2024 · after Victoria Nuland left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Kurt Campbell, 2024 · U.S. Department of State from United States · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Victoria NulandJul 29, 2023 — Feb 12, 2024acting

    AppointmentJul 29, 2023 · acting · after Wendy Sherman left

    HandoverFeb 12, 2024 · Kurt Campbell took office.

    The State Department said President Biden asked her to serve as Acting Deputy Secretary until the next Deputy Secretary was confirmed.

    Sources 1 2 3 4 5

  2. Wendy ShermanApr 14, 2021 — Jul 28, 2023Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentApr 14, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Apr 13, 2021 · after Daniel Smith left

    ResignationJul 28, 2023 · She retired from government service, Secretary Blinken said. July 28, 2023 was her last day on the job.

    Sources 1 2 3 4 5

  3. Daniel SmithJan 26, 2021 — Apr 14, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 26, 2021 · acting

    HandoverApr 14, 2021 · Wendy Sherman took office.

    His Arizona State University biography says he served as acting deputy secretary after his stint as acting secretary. A White House pool report of February 4, 2021 names him Acting Deputy Secretary.

    Sources 1 2 3 4 5

Secretary of the

Janet Yellen
Janet YellenSenate-confirmed
Jan 26, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Jan 25, 2021
Details

AppointmentJan 26, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 25, 2021 · after Andy Baukol left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sources 1 2 3

Photo

Janet Yellen, 2021 · US Department of the Treasury · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Andy BaukolJan 20, 2021 — Jan 26, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverJan 26, 2021 · Janet Yellen took office.

    Sources 1 2 3

Secretary of Defense

Lloyd Austin
Lloyd AustinSenate-confirmed
Jan 22, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Jan 22, 2021
Details

AppointmentJan 22, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 22, 2021 · after David Norquist left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

NBC News reported that Congress waived the rule that a former officer must have been out of uniform for seven years.

Sources 1 2 3

Photo

Lloyd Austin, 2023 · Chad J. McNeeley, U.S. Department of Defense · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. David NorquistJan 20, 2021 — Jan 22, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverJan 22, 2021 · Lloyd Austin took office. Stars and Stripes reported that Norquist returned to his post as deputy defense secretary.

    Senate-confirmed Deputy Secretary of Defense since 2019, acting secretary in addition.

    Sources 1 2 3

Deputy Secretary of Defense

Kathleen Hicks
Kathleen HicksSenate-confirmed
Feb 9, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Feb 8, 2021
Details

AppointmentFeb 9, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Feb 8, 2021 · after David Norquist left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sources 1 2 3

Photo

Kathleen Hicks, 2024 · U.S. Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen H. Hicks · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. David NorquistJan 20, 2021 — Feb 2021Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term

    DepartureFeb 2021

    Holdover. Confirmed by the Senate by voice vote on July 30, 2019 and sworn in as deputy secretary on July 31, 2019, during the Trump administration. Also acting Secretary of Defense from January 20, 2021 to January 22, 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3 4 5

Merrick Garland
Merrick GarlandSenate-confirmed
Mar 11, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Mar 10, 2021
Details

AppointmentMar 11, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 10, 2021 · after Monty Wilkinson left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Merrick Garland, 2021 · United States Department of Justice · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Monty WilkinsonJan 20, 2021 — Mar 11, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverMar 11, 2021 · Merrick Garland took office.

    Sources 1 2

Deb Haaland
Deb HaalandSenate-confirmed
Mar 16, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Mar 15, 2021
Details

AppointmentMar 16, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 15, 2021 · after Scott de la Vega left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

The Interior Department said she took the oath on March 16, 2021 in a small ceremony with family. A ceremonial swearing-in by Vice President Harris followed on March 18, 2021.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Deb Haaland, 2021 · Department of the Interior · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Scott de la VegaJan 20, 2021 — Mar 16, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverMar 16, 2021 · Deb Haaland took office.

    Sources 1 2

Secretary of Agriculture

Tom Vilsack
Tom VilsackSenate-confirmed
Feb 24, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Feb 23, 2021
Details

AppointmentFeb 24, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Feb 23, 2021 · after Kevin Shea left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sworn in virtually by Vice President Harris. He had also been agriculture secretary from 2009 to 2017 under President Obama.

Sources 1 2 3

Photo

Tom Vilsack, 2021 · U.S. Department of Agriculture Tom Witham · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Kevin SheaJan 20, 2021 — Feb 24, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverFeb 24, 2021 · Tom Vilsack took office.

    Sources 1 2

Secretary of Commerce

Gina Raimondo
Gina RaimondoSenate-confirmed
Mar 3, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Mar 2, 2021
Details

AppointmentMar 3, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 2, 2021 · after Wynn Coggins left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Gina Raimondo, 2021 · United States Department of Commerce · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Wynn CogginsJan 20, 2021 — Mar 3, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverMar 3, 2021 · Gina Raimondo took office.

    Sources 1 2

Secretary of Labor

Julie Su
Julie Suacting
Mar 11, 2023 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentMar 11, 2023 · acting · after Marty Walsh left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Deputy Secretary of Labor. Biden nominated her for secretary in 2023. SHRM reported that the Senate did not vote on the nomination and returned it. PBS and AP reported that Biden renominated her in January 2024. She was never confirmed as secretary.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Photo

Julie Su, 2021 · US Department of Labor · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Marty WalshMar 23, 2021 — Mar 10, 2023Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentMar 23, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 22, 2021 · after Al Stewart left

    ResignationMar 10, 2023 · He left to become executive director of the NHL Players' Association, which appointed him unanimously, NPR reported.

    The Labor Department lists his tenure as ending on March 10, 2023. Bloomberg Law reported he would officially step down on March 11, 2023.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

  2. Al StewartJan 20, 2021 — Mar 23, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverMar 23, 2021 · Marty Walsh took office.

    Sources 1 2 3

Secretary of Health and Human Services

Xavier Becerra
Xavier BecerraSenate-confirmed
Mar 19, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Mar 18, 2021
Details

AppointmentMar 19, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 18, 2021 · after Norris Cochran left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

ANCOR reported that he was sworn in virtually on Friday March 19, 2021. PBS and AP reported that Vice President Harris administered a ceremonial oath on March 26, 2021.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5

Photo

Xavier Becerra, 2021 · United States Department of Health and Human Services · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Norris CochranJan 20, 2021 — Mar 19, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverMar 19, 2021 · Xavier Becerra took office.

    Sources 1 2

Secretary of Housing and Urban Development

Adrianne Todman
Adrianne Todmanacting
Mar 22, 2024 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentMar 22, 2024 · acting · after Marcia Fudge left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Deputy Secretary of HUD. AP reported on PBS NewsHour that she became acting secretary when Fudge left. In January 2025 the White House cabinet page listed her as Deputy Secretary Performing the Delegable Duties of the Secretary.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Adrianne Todman, 2021 · U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Marcia FudgeMar 10, 2021 — Mar 22, 2024Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentMar 10, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 10, 2021 · after Matthew Ammon left

    ResignationMar 22, 2024 · Announced on March 11, 2024 that she would resign effective March 22, 2024, saying she would "transition to life as a private citizen", AP reported on PBS NewsHour.

    Sources 1 2 3 4 5

  2. Matthew AmmonJan 20, 2021 — Mar 10, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverMar 10, 2021 · Marcia Fudge was sworn in as Secretary of Housing and Urban Development on March 10, 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3

Secretary of Transportation

Pete Buttigieg
Pete ButtigiegSenate-confirmed
Feb 3, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Feb 2, 2021
Details

AppointmentFeb 3, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Feb 2, 2021 · after Lana Hurdle left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5

Photo

Pete Buttigieg, 2022 · United States Department of Transportation · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Lana HurdleJan 20, 2021 — Feb 3, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverFeb 3, 2021 · Pete Buttigieg was confirmed by the Senate on February 2, 2021 and sworn in on February 3, 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3

Secretary of Energy

Jennifer Granholm
Jennifer GranholmSenate-confirmed
Feb 25, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Feb 25, 2021
Details

AppointmentFeb 25, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Feb 25, 2021 · after David Huizenga left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5

Photo

Jennifer Granholm, 2021 · U.S Department of Energy · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. David HuizengaJan 20, 2021 — Feb 25, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverFeb 25, 2021 · Jennifer Granholm was sworn in as Secretary of Energy on February 25, 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

Secretary of Education

Miguel Cardona
Miguel CardonaSenate-confirmed
Mar 2, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Mar 1, 2021
Details

AppointmentMar 2, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 1, 2021 · after Phil Rosenfelt left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

A White House pool report says Vice President Harris administered the oath on March 2, 2021.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Photo

Miguel Cardona, 2021 · United States Department of Education · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Phil RosenfeltJan 20, 2021 — Mar 2, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverMar 2, 2021 · Miguel Cardona was sworn in as Secretary of Education on March 2, 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3

Secretary of Veterans Affairs

Denis McDonough
Denis McDonoughSenate-confirmed
Feb 9, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Feb 8, 2021
Details

AppointmentFeb 9, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Feb 8, 2021 · after Dat Tran left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5 6

Photo

Denis McDonough, 2021 · U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Dat TranJan 20, 2021 — Feb 9, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverFeb 9, 2021 · Denis McDonough was sworn in as Secretary of Veterans Affairs on February 9, 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3

Secretary of

Alejandro Mayorkas
Alejandro MayorkasSenate-confirmed
Feb 2, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Feb 2, 2021
Details

AppointmentFeb 2, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Feb 2, 2021 · after David Pekoske left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

The House impeached him by 214 to 213 on February 13, 2024. AP reported that the Senate dismissed both articles on April 17, 2024.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Photo

Alejandro Mayorkas, 2021 · Zachary Hupp/U.S. Department of Homeland Security · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. David PekoskeJan 20, 2021 — Feb 2, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverFeb 2, 2021 · Alejandro Mayorkas was sworn in as Secretary of Homeland Security on February 2, 2021.

    TSA Administrator. The GAO vacancy record lists him as acting secretary.

    Sources 1 2 3

Administrator

Jane Nishidaacting
Jan 1, 2025 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentJan 1, 2025 · acting · after Michael Regan left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Head of EPA's Office of International and Tribal Affairs. AP reported that she would be acting administrator for the last weeks of the term. Her second acting stint.

Sources 1 2

  1. Michael ReganMar 11, 2021 — Dec 31, 2024Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentMar 11, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 10, 2021 · after Jane Nishida left

    DepartureDec 31, 2024

    AP reported on December 20, 2024 that he would leave the post on December 31, 2024, about three weeks before the end of Biden's term.

    Sources 1 2 3 4 5

  2. Jane NishidaJan 20, 2021 — Mar 11, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverMar 11, 2021 · Michael Regan was sworn in as EPA Administrator on March 11, 2021.

    Sources 1 2

Director of National Intelligence

Avril Haines
Avril HainesSenate-confirmed
Jan 21, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Jan 20, 2021
Details

AppointmentJan 21, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 20, 2021 · after Lora Shiao left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5

Photo

Avril Haines, 2021 · Office of the Director of National Intelligence · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Lora ShiaoJan 20, 2021 — Jan 21, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverJan 21, 2021 · Avril Haines took the oath of office as Director of National Intelligence on January 21, 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

Director

William Burns
William BurnsSenate-confirmed
Mar 19, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Mar 18, 2021
Details

AppointmentMar 19, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 18, 2021 · after David Cohen left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

The CIA said Vice President Harris administered the oath at a White House ceremony on March 23, 2021.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5 6

Photo

William Burns, 2021 · CIA, Central Intelligence Agency · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. David CohenJan 20, 2021 — Mar 19, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverMar 19, 2021 · William Burns took office as CIA Director after his Senate confirmation on March 18, 2021.

    Deputy CIA Director. The CIA said he served as acting director while Burns awaited confirmation.

    Sources 1 2 3

United States Trade Representative

Katherine Tai
Katherine TaiSenate-confirmed
Mar 18, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Mar 17, 2021
Details

AppointmentMar 18, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 17, 2021 · after Maria Pagan left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Katherine Tai, 2021 · Stephanie Chasez · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Maria PaganJan 20, 2021 — Mar 18, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverMar 18, 2021 · Katherine Tai was confirmed by the Senate on March 17, 2021 and sworn in on March 18, 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3

Ambassador to the United Nations

Linda Thomas-Greenfield
Linda Thomas-GreenfieldSenate-confirmed
Feb 24, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Feb 23, 2021
Details

AppointmentFeb 24, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Feb 23, 2021 · after Richard Mills left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

VOA reported that she presented her credentials to UN Secretary-General Guterres on February 25, 2021. A second Senate vote on the day of her confirmation, 78 to 21, confirmed her as U.S. representative to the UN General Assembly sessions.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Photo

Linda Thomas-Greenfield, 2021 · U.S. Mission to the United Nations · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Richard MillsJan 20, 2021 — Feb 24, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverFeb 24, 2021 · Linda Thomas-Greenfield was sworn in as ambassador on February 24, 2021.

    Deputy U.S. ambassador to the UN. The White House named him acting head of the U.S. Mission.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

Administrator

Isabel Guzman
Isabel GuzmanSenate-confirmed
Mar 17, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Mar 16, 2021
Details

AppointmentMar 17, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 16, 2021 · after Tami Perriello left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5

Photo

Isabel Guzman, 2019 · State of California · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Tami PerrielloJan 20, 2021 — Mar 17, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverMar 17, 2021 · Isabel Guzman was sworn in as SBA Administrator on March 17, 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3

Law enforcement, borders and the military

Director

Paul Abbateacting
Jan 19, 2025 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentJan 19, 2025 · acting · after Christopher Wray left

ResignationJan 20, 2025 · AP reported that Abbate, the deputy director, retired, writing to colleagues "I am departing the FBI today".

Deputy director who became acting director when Wray left. AP reported that he held the role for about a day.

Sources 1 2

  1. Christopher WrayJan 20, 2021 — Jan 19, 2025Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term

    ResignationJan 19, 2025 · NPR reported that Wray told FBI employees he would resign at the end of the Biden administration to "avoid dragging the Bureau deeper into the fray", after Trump said he would nominate Kash Patel. AP reported that his final day was Sunday January 19, 2025.

    Holdover. Nominated by Trump and confirmed by the Senate by 92 to 5 on August 1, 2017. PBS reported that he was sworn in on August 2, 2017 for a ten-year term.

    Sources 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Administrator

Anne Milgram
Anne MilgramSenate-confirmed
Jun 28, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Jun 24, 2021
Details

AppointmentJun 28, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jun 24, 2021 · after D. Christopher Evans left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Confirmed by unanimous consent. Sworn in on June 28, 2021 by Attorney General Merrick Garland.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5

Photo

Anne Milgram, 2021 · Drug Enforcement Administration · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. D. Christopher EvansJan 2021 — Jun 28, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 2021 · acting

    HandoverJun 28, 2021 · Anne Milgram was sworn in.

    Career DEA official. DEA press releases in spring 2021 call him acting administrator.

    Sources 1 2 3

Director

Marvin Richardsonacting
Jan 17, 2025 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentJan 17, 2025 · acting · after Steve Dettelbach left

Deputy director. Bearing Arms reported that he was left in charge when Dettelbach stepped down. Remained in the post after January 20, 2025. CBS News called him the current acting director in February 2025, when Kash Patel was to replace him.

Sources 1 2 3

  1. Steve DettelbachJul 12, 2022 — Jan 17, 2025Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentJul 12, 2022 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jul 12, 2022 · after Gary Restaino left

    ResignationJan 17, 2025 · The Reload reported that ATF said Dettelbach gave his resignation to President Biden effective January 18, 2025. ATF called it routine and tied to a memorandum of December 19, 2024 to all presidential appointees.

    AP reported that he was the first Senate-confirmed ATF director since 2015. The Justice Department said Attorney General Merrick Garland swore him in on July 12, 2022, the day of the vote. ABC News reported a ceremonial swearing-in on July 19, 2022. BakerHostetler and Bearing Arms said he stepped down on Friday January 17, 2025.

    Sources 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

  2. Gary RestainoApr 25, 2022 — Jul 12, 2022acting

    AppointmentApr 25, 2022 · acting · after Marvin Richardson left

    HandoverJul 12, 2022 · Steve Dettelbach was confirmed and sworn in.

    AP reported that he was also U.S. Attorney for Arizona and held both jobs. The Justice Department said Biden signed the order designating him on April 25, 2022, effective when Dettelbach's nomination reached the Senate. The Congressional Record shows the Senate received it that day.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

  3. Marvin RichardsonJun 2021 — Apr 25, 2022acting

    AppointmentJun 2021 · acting · after Regina Lombardo left

    ReplacedApr 25, 2022 · AP and CNN reported that the White House put Gary Restaino in charge while Steve Dettelbach's nomination was pending, citing the Vacancies Reform Act, and that Richardson returned to deputy director.

    Deputy director. CNN wrote in April 2022 that he "took the post last June".

    Sources 1 2 3

  4. Regina LombardoJan 20, 2021 — May 31, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    ResignationMay 31, 2021 · AmmoLand reported that Lombardo announced her retirement and submitted her resignation to Attorney General Merrick Garland on April 13, 2021, effective May 31, 2021.

    Holdover. The Justice Department said Attorney General William Barr appointed her acting deputy director in 2019. In that role she led ATF. The end date is the effective date she gave in April 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3

Director of the U.S. Marshals Service

Ronald L. Davis
Ronald L. DavisSenate-confirmed
Sep 27, 2021 — Jan 17, 2025Senate vote Sep 22, 2021
Details

AppointmentSep 27, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Sep 22, 2021 · after Donald W. Washington left

ResignationJan 17, 2025 · The Marshals Service says he retired from the agency on January 17, 2025.

Confirmed by unanimous consent and sworn in on September 27, 2021 as the 12th director.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Ronald L. Davis, 2021 · U.S. Marshals Service · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Donald W. WashingtonJan 20, 2021 — Sep 2021Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term

    DepartureSep 2021

    Holdover. Nominated by Trump. A release on PR Newswire of March 27, 2019 says the Senate had confirmed him. His law firm says he led the Marshals Service from 2019 to 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

Deputy Attorney General

Lisa Monaco
Lisa MonacoSenate-confirmed
Apr 21, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Apr 20, 2021
Details

AppointmentApr 21, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Apr 20, 2021 · after John Carlin left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

PYMNTS reported that she was sworn in on April 21, 2021, the day after the vote. GAO ends Carlin's acting service the same day.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5

Photo

Lisa Monaco, 2023 · United States Department of Justice · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. John CarlinJan 20, 2021 — Apr 21, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverApr 21, 2021 · Lisa Monaco took office.

    Sources 1 2

of the United States

Elizabeth Prelogar
Elizabeth PrelogarSenate-confirmed
Oct 28, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Oct 28, 2021
Details

AppointmentOct 28, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Oct 28, 2021 · after Brian H. Fletcher left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Elizabeth Prelogar, 2022 · United States Department of Justice · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Brian H. FletcherAug 11, 2021 — Oct 28, 2021acting

    AppointmentAug 11, 2021 · acting · after Elizabeth Prelogar left

    HandoverOct 28, 2021 · Elizabeth Prelogar was confirmed.

    Sources 1 2

  2. Elizabeth PrelogarJan 20, 2021 — Aug 10, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverAug 10, 2021 · SCOTUSblog reported that under the federal vacancies law Prelogar had to step down as acting solicitor general while her own nomination was pending, and Brian Fletcher took over.

    Principal deputy solicitor general. GAO records that she was nominated for the post on August 10, 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3

Director

Patrick Lechleitner
Patrick Lechleitneracting
Jul 2023 — Jan 20, 2025

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. No director was confirmed by the Senate during the Biden administration.

Details

AppointmentJul 2023 · acting · after Tae Johnson left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Formerly acting executive associate director of Homeland Security Investigations. CNN reported that Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas told employees on June 28, 2023 that he would lead ICE as deputy director and senior official performing the duties of the director.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Patrick Lechleitner, 2023 · Immigration and Customs Enforcement · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Tae JohnsonJan 20, 2021 — Jun 2023acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    ResignationJun 2023 · He retired. Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas issued a statement on his retirement on June 5, 2023.

    Deputy director and senior official performing the duties of the director. The Department of Homeland Security called him ICE's leader since 2021. NBC News reported that an ICE spokesperson said he would step down at the end of June.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

Commissioner

Pete Floresacting
Jan 13, 2025 — Jan 20, 2025

U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Details

AppointmentJan 13, 2025 · acting · after Troy Miller left

CBP's own list starts his acting service on January 13, 2025, a week before the inauguration. Remained in the post after January 20, 2025. CBP lists him until June 23, 2025.

Sources 1

  1. Troy MillerNov 12, 2022 — Jan 10, 2025acting

    AppointmentNov 12, 2022 · acting · after Chris Magnus left

    DepartureJan 10, 2025

    Sources 1 2

  2. Chris MagnusDec 13, 2021 — Nov 12, 2022Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentDec 13, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Dec 7, 2021 · after Troy Miller left

    ResignationNov 12, 2022 · CBS News reported that Homeland Security leaders asked him to step down and that a senior DHS official said Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas had lost confidence in his ability to lead CBP. Biden accepted his resignation. Magnus told the Los Angeles Times that some in the top leadership at DHS did not understand what reform looked like, CBS News reported.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

  3. Troy MillerJan 20, 2021 — Dec 13, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverDec 13, 2021 · Chris Magnus took office.

    Sources 1

Secret Service Director

Ronald Rowe Jr.acting
Jul 23, 2024 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentJul 23, 2024 · acting · after Kimberly Cheatle left

Deputy director. ABC News reported that he was named acting director when Cheatle resigned. Remained in the post after January 20, 2025. The Secret Service says Sean Curran took office on January 22, 2025.

Sources 1 2 3 4

  1. Kimberly CheatleSep 18, 2022 — Jul 23, 2024appointed

    AppointmentSep 18, 2022 · appointed by the president · after James M. Murray left

    ResignationJul 23, 2024 · ABC News reported that in an email to employees after the shooting at a Trump rally on July 13, 2024 she wrote, "As your Director, I take full responsibility for the security lapse".

    Biden announced her appointment in a White House statement on August 24, 2022. The Secret Service says she was sworn in on September 18, 2022 and took charge at once. A formal ceremony followed on September 28, 2022.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

  2. James M. MurrayJan 20, 2021 — Sep 2022appointed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term

    ResignationSep 2022 · The Secret Service said Murray announced his retirement after 32 years of service, first set for July 30, 2022. ABC News reported that he then briefly delayed it to "help bridge the gap" until a new director was chosen.

    Holdover. The Secret Service says Trump named him director on April 8, 2019 and that he took office on May 1, 2019. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas still called him the current director in a statement of August 24, 2022.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

Chairman of the of Staff

Charles Q. Brown Jr.
Charles Q. Brown Jr.Senate-confirmed
Oct 1, 2023 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Sep 20, 2023
Details

AppointmentOct 1, 2023 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Sep 20, 2023 · after Mark Milley left

Milley gave him the oath at a ceremony on September 29, 2023. Air & Space Forces Magazine reported that he took over at midnight on September 30, 2023, when Milley's term expired. Remained in the post after January 20, 2025. CBS News reported that Trump removed him in February 2025.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Photo

Charles Q. Brown Jr., 2020 · U. S. Air Force · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Mark MilleyJan 20, 2021 — Sep 30, 2023Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term

    Term endedSep 30, 2023 · Air & Space Forces Magazine reported that his four-year term as chairman expired at midnight on September 30, 2023. The law sets the chairman's term at four years. A farewell ceremony was held on September 29, 2023.

    Holdover. Nominated by Trump and confirmed by the Senate by 89 to 1 on July 25, 2019. Became chairman in 2019.

    Sources 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Secretary of the Army

Christine Wormuth
Christine WormuthSenate-confirmed
May 28, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote May 27, 2021
Details

AppointmentMay 28, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on May 27, 2021 · after John Whitley left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

First woman to serve as Secretary of the Army. GAO ends the acting service of her predecessor on May 28, 2021. Executive Gov reported she was sworn in the day after the Senate vote.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5

Photo

Christine Wormuth, 2023 · Bernardo Fuller, U.S. Army · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. John WhitleyJan 20, 2021 — May 28, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverMay 28, 2021 · Christine Wormuth took office.

    Assistant Secretary of the Army for Financial Management and Comptroller. GAO lists his acting service from January 20, 2021 to May 28, 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3

Secretary of the Navy

Carlos Del Toro
Carlos Del ToroSenate-confirmed
Aug 9, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Aug 7, 2021
Details

AppointmentAug 9, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Aug 7, 2021 · after Thomas Harker left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

The Navy said he was sworn in as the 78th Secretary of the Navy on August 9, 2021.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5

Photo

Carlos Del Toro, 2021 · U.S. Navy · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Thomas HarkerJan 20, 2021 — Aug 9, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverAug 9, 2021 · Carlos Del Toro took office.

    Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Financial Management and Comptroller. GAO lists his acting service from January 20, 2021 to August 9, 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

Secretary of the Air Force

Frank Kendall
Frank KendallSenate-confirmed
Jul 28, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Jul 26, 2021
Details

AppointmentJul 28, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jul 26, 2021 · after John P. Roth left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Air & Space Forces Magazine reported that he was administratively sworn in on July 28, 2021, two days after the Senate vote.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Frank Kendall, 2021 · U.S. Air Force · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. John P. RothJan 20, 2021 — Jul 28, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverJul 28, 2021 · Frank Kendall was sworn in.

    Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Financial Management and Comptroller. The Air Force said he was acting secretary from January 20, 2021. Air & Space Forces Magazine reported that he stepped down from the post on July 27, 2021, the day before Kendall was sworn in.

    Sources 1 2 3 4 5

Health

of the United States

Vivek Murthy
Vivek MurthySenate-confirmed
Mar 25, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Mar 23, 2021
Details

AppointmentMar 25, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 23, 2021 · after Susan Orsega left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sworn in by HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. He had also been surgeon general in 2014-2017.

Sources 1 2 3

Photo

Vivek Murthy, 2022 · United States Department of Health and Human Services · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Susan OrsegaJan 2021 — Mar 25, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 2021 · acting · after Jerome Adams left

    HandoverMar 25, 2021 · Vivek Murthy was sworn in.

    A nurse and Public Health Service officer, named acting surgeon general by President Biden until the Senate confirmed Murthy. CBS News and Reuters reported her selection on January 26, 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

  2. Jerome AdamsJan 20, 2021 — Jan 20, 2021Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term

    ResignationJan 20, 2021 · UPI reported that Adams wrote that he had been asked by the Biden team to step down as surgeon general.

    A holdover appointed by President Trump. He stepped down on Inauguration Day.

    Sources 1 2

Director

Mandy Cohen
Mandy Cohenappointed
Jul 10, 2023 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentJul 10, 2023 · appointed by the president · after Nirav Shah left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

AP reported that the post did not need Senate confirmation at the time.

Sources 1 2 3

Photo

Mandy Cohen, 2023 · United States Department of Health and Human Services · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Nirav ShahJul 2023 — Jul 10, 2023acting

    AppointmentJul 2023 · acting · after Rochelle Walensky left

    HandoverJul 10, 2023 · Mandy Cohen was sworn in.

    CDC principal deputy director. Government Executive reported that Walensky wrote to staff that he would serve as acting director until Cohen started.

    Sources 1 2

  2. Rochelle WalenskyJan 20, 2021 — Jun 30, 2023appointed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term

    ResignationJun 30, 2023 · AP reported on PBS that in her letter to President Biden she pointed to the moment of transition as the COVID-19 emergency declarations ended.

    AP reported that the post did not need Senate confirmation at the time and that she was sworn in on the first day of the Biden administration.

    Sources 1 2 3 4 5

Director

Monica Bertagnolli
Monica BertagnolliSenate-confirmed
Nov 9, 2023 — Jan 17, 2025Senate vote Nov 7, 2023
Details

AppointmentNov 9, 2023 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Nov 7, 2023 · after Lawrence Tabak left

DepartureJan 17, 2025

The ASCO Post reported that she announced on January 14, 2025 that she would step down. HealthDay reported that she left the post on January 17, 2025. The sources give no reason.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5

Photo

Monica Bertagnolli, 2024 · NIH Image Gallery · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Lawrence TabakDec 20, 2021 — Nov 9, 2023acting

    AppointmentDec 20, 2021 · acting · after Francis Collins left

    HandoverNov 9, 2023 · Monica Bertagnolli was sworn in.

    NIH principal deputy director, named acting director by HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra.

    Sources 1 2 3

  2. Francis CollinsJan 20, 2021 — Dec 19, 2021Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term

    ResignationDec 19, 2021 · AP reported that Collins announced on October 5, 2021 that he would step down by the end of the year and said no single person should serve in the post too long.

    A holdover, appointed by President Obama in 2009. AP reported that Presidents Trump and Biden asked him to stay on. He returned to his lab at NIH.

    Sources 1 2

Commissioner

Robert Califf
Robert CaliffSenate-confirmed
Feb 17, 2022 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Feb 15, 2022
Details

AppointmentFeb 17, 2022 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Feb 15, 2022 · after Janet Woodcock left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

He had also led the FDA in 2016-2017.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Robert Califf, 2022 · United States Food and Drug Administration · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Janet WoodcockJan 20, 2021 — Feb 17, 2022acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverFeb 17, 2022 · Robert Califf was sworn in.

    Named acting commissioner when Stephen Hahn resigned on January 20, 2021. The FDA said she stayed at the agency as principal deputy commissioner.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

Administrator of the

Chiquita Brooks-LaSure
Chiquita Brooks-LaSureSenate-confirmed
May 27, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote May 25, 2021
Details

AppointmentMay 27, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on May 25, 2021 · after Elizabeth Richter left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Sworn in by HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra.

Sources 1 2 3

Photo

Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, 2021 · Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Elizabeth RichterJan 20, 2021 — May 27, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverMay 27, 2021 · Chiquita Brooks-LaSure was sworn in.

    A career CMS official. Seema Verma's resignation took effect on January 20, 2021.

    Sources 1 2 3

Money, agencies and services

Chair

Jerome Powell
Jerome PowellSenate-confirmed
May 23, 2022 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote May 12, 2022
Details

AppointmentMay 23, 2022 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on May 12, 2022

The Federal Reserve said Vice Chair Lael Brainard swore him in for a second four-year term. Remained in the post after January 20, 2025.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Jerome Powell, 2022 · Federalreserve · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Jerome PowellJan 20, 2021 — May 23, 2022Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term

    Term endedMay 23, 2022 · AP reported on PBS that his first four-year term as chair expired in February 2022 and that he led the Fed in a temporary capacity until the Senate confirmed him for a second term.

    A holdover, nominated by President Trump. The Federal Reserve gives February 5, 2018 as the start of his first term as chair. President Biden renominated him in November 2021.

    Sources 1 2

Commissioner of

Daniel Werfel
Daniel WerfelSenate-confirmed
Mar 13, 2023 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Mar 9, 2023
Details

AppointmentMar 13, 2023 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 9, 2023 · after Douglas O'Donnell left

ResignationJan 20, 2025 · AP reported that in a letter to IRS employees he wrote that the President-elect had announced a plan to nominate a new commissioner and that the best way to support the transition was to leave on January 20, 2025.

His term was to run through November 12, 2027.

Sources 1 2 3

Photo

Daniel Werfel, 2023 · United States Department of Justice · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Douglas O'DonnellNov 12, 2022 — Mar 13, 2023acting

    AppointmentNov 12, 2022 · acting · after Charles Rettig left

    HandoverMar 13, 2023 · Daniel Werfel was sworn in.

    Deputy commissioner for services and enforcement, named by Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to head the IRS when Rettig's term ended.

    Sources 1 2 3

  2. Charles RettigJan 20, 2021 — Nov 12, 2022Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term

    Term endedNov 12, 2022 · His term as commissioner formally ended on November 12, 2022.

    A holdover, nominated by President Trump and sworn in on October 1, 2018.

    Sources 1 2 3

Chairman

Gary Gensler
Gary GenslerSenate-confirmed
Apr 17, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Apr 14, 2021
Details

AppointmentApr 17, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Apr 14, 2021 · after Allison Herren Lee left

ResignationJan 20, 2025 · The SEC announced on November 21, 2024 that he would step down at noon on January 20, 2025.

The April 2021 vote covered the rest of Jay Clayton's term, which ended on June 5, 2021. The Hill reported that on April 20, 2021 the Senate voted 54 to 45 to give him a full term through June 5, 2026. President Biden designated him chair.

Sources 1 2 3 4 5

Photo

Gary Gensler, 2022 · U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Allison Herren LeeJan 21, 2021 — Apr 17, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 21, 2021 · acting · after Elad Roisman left

    HandoverApr 17, 2021 · Gary Gensler was sworn in.

    An SEC commissioner designated acting chair by President Biden.

    Sources 1 2

  2. Elad RoismanJan 20, 2021 — Jan 21, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    ReplacedJan 21, 2021 · The SEC said President Biden designated Commissioner Allison Herren Lee as acting chair.

    Designated acting chairman by President Trump after Jay Clayton left, announced by the SEC on December 28, 2020.

    Sources 1 2

Chairman

Jessica RosenworcelSenate-confirmed
Dec 7, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Dec 7, 2021
Details

AppointmentDec 7, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Dec 7, 2021

ResignationJan 20, 2025 · Broadband Breakfast reported that she announced in a written statement on November 21, 2024 that she would leave the FCC on January 20, 2025.

The vote was for a new five-year term as commissioner. Fortune and CNBC reported that she was the first woman to be permanent chair of the FCC.

Sources 1 2 3

  1. Jessica RosenworcelJan 21, 2021 — Dec 7, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 21, 2021 · acting

    Permanent appointmentDec 7, 2021 · Law360 reported that the Senate confirmed her to a new term on December 7, 2021, which made her the permanent chair.

    An FCC commissioner designated acting chairwoman by President Biden on January 21, 2021. Ajit Pai had resigned effective January 20, 2021. Fortune reported that on October 26, 2021 the White House said Biden would make her the permanent chair.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission

Lina Khan
Lina KhanSenate-confirmed
Jun 15, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Jun 15, 2021
Details

AppointmentJun 15, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jun 15, 2021 · after Rebecca Kelly Slaughter left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

The Senate confirmed her as a commissioner and President Biden designated her chair. The FTC and AP said she was sworn in as chair the same day.

Sources 1 2 3

Photo

Lina Khan, 2021 · Federal Trade Commission · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Rebecca Kelly SlaughterJan 21, 2021 — Jun 15, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 21, 2021 · acting · after Joseph Simons left

    HandoverJun 15, 2021 · Lina Khan was sworn in as chair.

    An FTC commissioner designated acting chair by President Biden. She stayed on the commission.

    Sources 1 2

  2. Joseph SimonsJan 20, 2021 — Jan 21, 2021Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term

    ReplacedJan 21, 2021 · The FTC said President Biden designated Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter as acting chair. Simons had announced his resignation from the commission, effective January 29, 2021.

    A holdover. The FTC says he was sworn in as chairman on May 1, 2018 under President Trump.

    Sources 1 2

Commissioner of

Carolyn Colvin
Carolyn Colvinacting
Nov 30, 2024 — Jan 19, 2025
Details

AppointmentNov 30, 2024 · acting · after Martin O'Malley left

DepartureJan 19, 2025

SSA's list of commissioners gives her start and end dates and says President Biden appointed her acting commissioner for the transition. She had been acting commissioner before, in 2013-2017. Michelle King became acting commissioner on January 20, 2025.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Carolyn Colvin, 2024 · U.S. Government · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Martin O'MalleyDec 20, 2023 — Nov 29, 2024Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentDec 20, 2023 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Dec 18, 2023 · after Kilolo Kijakazi left

    ResignationNov 29, 2024 · CBS News reported that he resigned to run for chairman of the Democratic National Committee.

    Sworn in for a term expiring January 19, 2025.

    Sources 1 2 3 4 5

  2. Kilolo KijakaziJul 9, 2021 — Dec 20, 2023acting

    AppointmentJul 9, 2021 · acting · after Andrew Saul left

    HandoverDec 20, 2023 · Martin O'Malley was sworn in.

    SSA deputy commissioner for retirement and disability policy, named acting commissioner by President Biden. GAO found she was serving lawfully under the Social Security Act.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

  3. Andrew SaulJan 20, 2021 — Jul 9, 2021Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term

    DismissalJul 9, 2021 · CNBC reported that President Biden removed him after he declined to resign. The White House said he had undermined and politicized Social Security disability benefits.

    A holdover, nominated by President Trump and confirmed by the Senate 77 to 16 on June 4, 2019. Sworn in on June 17, 2019 for a term to January 19, 2025. He told The Washington Post he considered himself the term-protected commissioner.

    Sources 1 2 3 4

Administrator

Deanne Criswell
Deanne CriswellSenate-confirmed
Apr 27, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Apr 22, 2021
Details

AppointmentApr 27, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Apr 22, 2021 · after Bob Fenton left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

Confirmed by unanimous consent with no roll call. FEMA said Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas swore her in. The first woman confirmed to lead FEMA.

Sources 1 2 3 4

Photo

Deanne Criswell, 2024 · The White House · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Bob FentonJan 20, 2021 — Apr 27, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverApr 27, 2021 · Deanne Criswell was sworn in.

    FEMA Region 9 administrator. He took over the duties of FEMA administrator in January 2021, when Pete Gaynor became acting Homeland Security secretary, and stayed acting under President Biden.

    Sources 1 2 3

Administrator

Bill Nelson
Bill NelsonSenate-confirmed
May 3, 2021 — Jan 20, 2025Senate vote Apr 29, 2021
Details

AppointmentMay 3, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Apr 29, 2021 · after Steve Jurczyk left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

The Hill reported that he was confirmed by unanimous consent with no roll call. Sworn in by Vice President Kamala Harris.

Sources 1 2 3

Photo

Bill Nelson, 2021 · Bill Ingalls · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

  1. Steve JurczykJan 20, 2021 — May 3, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverMay 3, 2021 · Bill Nelson was sworn in.

    NASA associate administrator. UPI reported that he became acting administrator when Jim Bridenstine stepped down on January 20, 2021.

    Sources 1 2

Director of the

Rob Shriveracting
May 2024 — Jan 20, 2025
Details

AppointmentMay 2024 · acting · after Kiran Ahuja left

Term endedJan 20, 2025 · The Biden administration ended on January 20, 2025.

OPM deputy director. Government Executive reported that he became acting director after Ahuja left.

Sources 1 2

  1. Kiran AhujaJun 24, 2021 — May 2024Senate-confirmed

    AppointmentJun 24, 2021 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jun 22, 2021 · after Kathleen McGettigan left

    ResignationMay 2024 · Federal Times reported that an OPM spokesperson said she was stepping down because of health concerns and a recent death in the family.

    Vice President Kamala Harris broke the 50-50 tie in the Senate confirmation vote.

    Sources 1 2 3

  2. Kathleen McGettiganJan 20, 2021 — Jun 24, 2021acting

    AppointmentJan 20, 2021 · acting · from the start of the term

    HandoverJun 24, 2021 · Kiran Ahuja was sworn in.

    OPM chief management officer. Federal Times reported that the Biden administration announced her as acting director on January 20, 2021.

    Sources 1 2

What is still open

  • NIH Director, January 17, 2025 to January 20, 2025: no source names who led NIH after Monica Bertagnolli left.
  • Director of the U.S. Marshals Service, January 17, 2025 to January 20, 2025: no source names who led the agency after Ronald Davis retired.
  • CBP Commissioner, January 10, 2025 to January 13, 2025: CBP's own list of leaders shows no one for these days.
  • FCC Chairman, January 20, 2021 to January 21, 2021: no one is on record between Ajit Pai's departure and Jessica Rosenworcel's designation.
  • Senate votes were checked against Voteview's copy of the Senate roll calls, the Congressional Record and news reports.

How this page is made: every line comes from an official page or a news report linked next to it. A reason for leaving is given as the source gave it, with attribution. We add no judgement of our own.

Electoral College

The president is chosen not by the national vote but by 538 electors from the states, and 270 win. Nearly every state gives all its electors to its winner, so a candidate can win the presidency while losing the popular vote.

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Congress

The US parliament: the Senate and the House of Representatives. A bill becomes law when both pass it and the president signs it.

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OMB

Office of Management and Budget: the White House office that prepares the president's budget and oversees how federal agencies spend money.

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Treasury Department

The federal finance ministry: it collects taxes through the IRS, pays the government's bills and borrows by selling bonds. The interest on those bonds steers mortgage and loan rates.

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Attorney General

The head of the Justice Department and the government's chief lawyer. Each state has its own attorney general too.

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Interior Department

The federal ministry that manages public lands, national parks, water and natural resources. It has nothing to do with the police.

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DHS (Department of Homeland Security)

The federal ministry in charge of borders and immigration enforcement. ICE, CBP and USCIS belong to it, as do the Coast Guard, the Secret Service and the disaster agency FEMA.

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EPA

The federal agency that sets and enforces the rules on air and water pollution, chemicals and vehicle emissions.

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CIA

Central Intelligence Agency: the federal agency that gathers intelligence abroad. It has no police powers inside the country.

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SBA

Small Business Administration: the federal agency that backs loans to small businesses and advises them.

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FBI

The Federal Bureau of Investigation: the main federal police and counterintelligence agency, part of the Justice Department.

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DEA

Drug Enforcement Administration: the federal agency that fights drug trafficking. It is part of the Justice Department.

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ATF

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives: the federal agency that enforces the laws on guns and explosives. Today it is part of the Justice Department.

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Solicitor General

The lawyer who argues the federal government's cases before the Supreme Court. The post is part of the Justice Department.

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ICE

Immigration and Customs Enforcement: the federal agency that arrests, detains and deports people who are in the US without legal status.

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CBP and Border Patrol

Customs and Border Protection guards the borders and checks everyone entering the country. The Border Patrol is part of it.

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Joint Chiefs of Staff

The group of the top officers of each military service. Its chairman is the highest-ranking officer and the president's chief military adviser but commands no troops.

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Surgeon General

The federal government's chief public health doctor, who warns the country about health risks. The post leads the uniformed Public Health Service corps.

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CDC

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: the federal agency that tracks diseases and issues public health guidance.

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NIH

National Institutes of Health: the federal agency that funds and conducts medical research.

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FDA

Food and Drug Administration: the federal agency that approves medicines and vaccines and oversees the safety of food.

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CMS

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: the federal agency that runs Medicare and oversees Medicaid. Until 2001 it was called the Health Care Financing Administration.

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Federal Reserve (the Fed)

The central bank of the United States. It sets the key interest rate, which moves the rates on loans, mortgages and savings.

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IRS

Internal Revenue Service: the federal agency that collects taxes. It is part of the Treasury Department.

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SEC

Securities and Exchange Commission: the federal regulator of the stock market. It writes the rules for companies that sell shares and for investment firms.

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FCC

Federal Communications Commission: the federal regulator of television, radio, phone and internet companies.

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Social Security

The federal program of retirement and disability benefits, paid for by a tax on wages.

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FEMA

Federal Emergency Management Agency: the federal agency that coordinates help after hurricanes, floods and other disasters.

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NASA

National Aeronautics and Space Administration: the federal space agency.

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OPM

Office of Personnel Management: the federal government's human resources agency. It sets the rules for hiring, pay and benefits of federal workers.

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