AppointmentJan 2013 · appointed by the president · after Jack Lew left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Previously Deputy National Security Advisor. Named by Obama on January 25, 2013. The archived White House senior staff page lists him as chief of staff at the end of the administration.
Denis McDonough, 2011 · Pete Souza · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Jack LewJan 2012 — Jan 2013appointed
AppointmentJan 2012 · appointed by the president · after William Daley left
Moved to another postJan 2013 · Obama chose him to be Secretary of the Treasury. The White House called him the outgoing chief of staff when Obama named Denis McDonough on January 25, 2013.
Previously Director of the Office of Management and Budget. Named chief of staff by Obama on January 9, 2012. No source we opened gives the day he took over or the day he left.
AppointmentJan 2011 · appointed by the president · after Pete Rouse left
ResignationJan 2012 · Obama said on January 9, 2012 that Daley had told him he wanted to spend more time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Obama also spoke of the pull of Chicago, the hometown they share.
Named by Obama on January 6, 2011. The Associated Press reported on January 9, 2012 that his replacement by Jack Lew would take effect at the end of the month.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term
ResignationOct 1, 2010 · Obama said on October 1, 2010 that Emanuel was leaving his post that day to explore other opportunities. Minnesota Public Radio reported that he was leaving to run for mayor of Chicago.
The White House used the title Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy for Nancy-Ann DeParle in 2011 and Rob Nabors in 2013. At the end of the administration the White House listed two deputy chiefs of staff, Anita Decker Breckenridge and Kristie Canegallo, and neither held this title.
Details
AppointmentJan 2013 · appointed by the president · after Nancy-Ann DeParle left
Moved to another postApr 2015 · Federal News Network reported in April 2015 that he was becoming chief of staff to Veterans Affairs Secretary Bob McDonald and called him the former deputy chief of staff for policy.
Previously Director of Legislative Affairs. The White House named him Assistant to the President and Deputy White House Chief of Staff for Policy on January 25, 2013. No source we opened gives the day he left this post.
AppointmentJan 2011 · appointed by the president · after Mona Sutphen left
DepartureJan 2013
Chief of Staff William Daley named her Assistant to the President and Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy in a staff memo dated January 27, 2011, reported by CBS News on January 28, 2011.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term
DepartureJan 2011
Her White House title was Deputy Chief of Staff. The Associated Press called her deputy chief of staff for policy on January 5, 2011 and reported that she was expected to leave. No source we opened gives her last day.
AppointmentMay 2014 · appointed by the president · after Kathryn Ruemmler left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Named on April 21, 2014. NBC News reported that he was expected to start in mid-May. No source we opened gives his first day. The White House published a post by him as Counsel to the President on January 19, 2017.
Neil Eggleston, 2014 · Pete Souza · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Kathryn RuemmlerJun 2011 — May 2014appointed
AppointmentJun 2011 · appointed by the president · after Bob Bauer left
ResignationMay 2014 · NPR reported that she was returning to private practice after nearly three years on the job.
NPR reported on June 2, 2011 that Bauer would be replaced by Ruemmler, a veteran prosecutor. The Hill reported on April 7, 2014 that she would leave in mid-May. No source we opened gives her first or last day.
AppointmentJan 2010 · appointed by the president · after Greg Craig left
ResignationJun 2011 · NPR reported on June 2, 2011 that Bauer would return to his law firm, Perkins Coie, at the end of June.
Obama's personal lawyer. CBS News reported on November 13, 2009 that he would replace Craig. No source we opened gives the day he took over or his last day.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term
ResignationJan 3, 2010 · The White House announced on November 13, 2009 that Craig would return to private practice. The Christian Science Monitor reported that he had faced criticism for his handling of the politics around Guantanamo.
The Christian Science Monitor reported that his resignation took effect on January 3, 2010.
AppointmentApr 2015 · appointed by the president · after Jennifer Palmieri left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Moved from the State Department. The Associated Press reported on February 19, 2015 that she would start on April 1. Press Secretary Josh Earnest named her among senior White House officials in his last briefing on January 17, 2017.
Jen Psaki, 2013 · US Department of State · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Jennifer PalmieriJan 2013 — Apr 2015appointed
AppointmentJan 2013 · appointed by the president · after Dan Pfeiffer left
ResignationApr 2015 · The Associated Press reported that she was leaving to join the likely presidential campaign of Hillary Rodham Clinton.
The White House named her Assistant to the President and Communications Director on January 25, 2013. The Hill reported on February 4, 2015 that she planned to leave later in the spring.
AppointmentApr 2009 · acting · after Ellen Moran left
HandoverNov 2009 · White House officials said she would leave at the end of November, UPI reported. Her deputy Dan Pfeiffer was to take over.
UPI called her interim communications director. The Christian Science Monitor reported that she said she took the job on an interim basis. UPI reported that she was expected to stay on as a White House consultant.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term
Moved to another postApr 2009 · CBS News reported on April 21, 2009 that she was leaving to become chief of staff to Commerce Secretary Gary Locke.
The Christian Science Monitor described her departure in April 2009 as sudden. CBS News said on April 21, 2009 that she would leave in the coming weeks. No source we opened gives her last day.
AppointmentJun 2014 · appointed by the president · after Jay Carney left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Previously deputy press secretary. The Hill reported on June 18, 2014 that he would officially take over after Carney departed on Friday. He said at the White House briefing of January 17, 2017 that it was his last.
AppointmentFeb 14, 2011 · appointed by the president · after Robert Gibbs left
ResignationJun 20, 2014 · Government Executive reported that Carney said he wanted to spend more time with his family. Obama announced the change on May 30, 2014.
Previously communications director to Vice President Joe Biden. Fox News wrote on Wednesday February 16, 2011 that he had replaced Gibbs on Monday, which was February 14, 2011. He gave his last briefing on June 18, 2014. The Hill reported that day that he would depart on Friday, which was June 20, 2014.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term
ResignationFeb 2011 · UPI reported that Gibbs would remain involved in politics, speak in defense of the president and help with the 2012 re-election campaign.
UPI reported that he gave his last briefing on February 11, 2011. NBC News wrote on February 16, 2011 that he had left the White House the week before. No source we opened gives his last day.
AppointmentJul 1, 2013 · appointed by the president · after Tom Donilon left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Previously Ambassador to the United Nations. Named by Obama on June 5, 2013. Foreign Policy reported that her first day was July 1, 2013. The White House published her remarks as National Security Advisor on January 10, 2017.
Susan Rice, 2013 · Chuck Kennedy/White House · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Tom DonilonOct 2010 — Jun 29, 2013appointed
AppointmentOct 2010 · appointed by the president · after James L. Jones left
ResignationJun 29, 2013 · Obama said on June 5, 2013 that Donilon had decided to step aside at the beginning of July. UPI reported that he had planned to leave after Obama's first term but stayed at the president's request.
Previously Deputy National Security Advisor. Foreign Policy reported that his last day was technically Saturday, June 29, 2013.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term
ResignationOct 2010 · Obama said on October 8, 2010 that Jones had decided to step aside later that month and recalled that Jones had agreed to serve for about two years.
WBUR reported on October 8, 2010 that his resignation would take effect in two weeks. No source we opened gives his last day.
AppointmentJul 28, 2014 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jul 10, 2014 · after Brian Deese left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Previously Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. The White House archive says he was sworn in as the 40th Director of OMB on July 28, 2014. An OMB post of January 9, 2017 said that OMB Director Shaun Donovan had issued his exit memo the week before.
Shaun Donovan, 2009 · US Department of Housing and Urban Development · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Brian DeeseJun 2014 — Jul 28, 2014acting
AppointmentJun 2014 · acting · after Sylvia Mathews Burwell left
HandoverJul 28, 2014 · Shaun Donovan was sworn in as director on July 28, 2014.
Deputy Director of OMB. A White House blog post of July 11, 2014 identifies him as Acting Director. No source we opened gives his first day as acting director.
AppointmentJan 2012 · acting · after Jack Lew left
HandoverApr 2013 · Sylvia Mathews Burwell, confirmed by the Senate on April 24, 2013, took over.
Lew wrote on January 17, 2012 that Zients would serve as acting director after Lew left OMB. Nextgov reported that Zients had been acting director since January 2012.
AppointmentNov 19, 2010 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Nov 18, 2010 · after Jeffrey Zients left
Moved to another postJan 2012 · Obama named him White House Chief of Staff on January 9, 2012.
The Senate Homeland Security Committee said on Friday November 19, 2010 that he was confirmed by voice vote late Thursday, which was November 18, 2010. The Fiscal Times reported that he was sworn in on the afternoon of November 19, 2010.
AppointmentJul 2010 · acting · after Peter Orszag left
HandoverNov 19, 2010 · Jack Lew was sworn in as director on November 19, 2010.
Deputy Director for Management of OMB. Roll Call reported on July 30, 2010 that he would serve as acting director while Lew awaited confirmation. Lew wrote in 2012 that Zients had been acting director from July to November 2010.
Peter OrszagJan 2009 — Jul 30, 2010Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 20, 2009
ResignationJul 30, 2010 · A source close to him told The Fiscal Times that nearly two years at OMB was enough for him and that he wanted to focus on his wedding.
Confirmed by the Senate on January 20, 2009 with other nominees. Voteview shows no roll call vote for him. No source we opened gives the day of his oath. Roll Call wrote on Friday July 30, 2010 that his last day was Friday.
AppointmentMar 2014 · appointed by the president · after Gene Sperling left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Previously acting Director of OMB. Obama announced on September 13, 2013 that he would appoint Zients. Reuters named him as Sperling's successor on March 3, 2014. The White House archive lists him as Director of the National Economic Council.
Jeffrey Zients, 2012 · Official White House photographer · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Gene SperlingJan 2011 — Mar 2014appointed
AppointmentJan 2011 · appointed by the president · after Larry Summers left
ResignationMar 2014 · Fox News reported on September 13, 2013 that he was said to be leaving for personal reasons. His wife worked in Los Angeles and he had been splitting his time between Washington and California.
The Associated Press reported on January 7, 2011 that Obama had named him. The White House said on September 13, 2013 that he would depart on January 1, 2014, but Reuters reported on March 3, 2014 that he was ending his tenure that week.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term
ResignationDec 2010 · CBS News reported that he left the White House to return to Harvard University. He had announced his resignation in September 2010.
CBS News wrote on January 7, 2011 that he had left the White House the month before. No source we opened gives his last day.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · acting · from the start of the term
HandoverJan 21, 2009 · Hillary Clinton took office.
Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs since May 13, 2008. Education Week reported that he would serve as acting secretary until Clinton was confirmed. Fox News reported on January 21, 2009 that he was holding down the fort for her.
Antony Blinken, 2015 · US State Department · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Wendy ShermanNov 3, 2014 — Jan 9, 2015acting
AppointmentNov 3, 2014 · acting · after William Burns left
HandoverJan 9, 2015 · Antony Blinken took office.
Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs. The State Department said the president had designated her to assume all authorities and responsibilities of the deputy secretary, effective November 3, 2014, Reuters reported. She kept her under secretary post.
William BurnsJul 28, 2011 — Nov 3, 2014Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJul 28, 2011 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jul 27, 2011 · after James Steinberg left
DepartureNov 3, 2014 · He retired from the Foreign Service. He announced in April 2014 that he would retire in October, NPR reported.
Confirmed by unanimous consent, the Congressional Record shows. The Office of the Historian gives July 28, 2011 as his entry on duty and November 3, 2014 as the end of his appointment. Reuters reported on November 3, 2014 that he had retired the month before.
James SteinbergJan 29, 2009 — Jun 2011Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 29, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 28, 2009 · after John Negroponte left
DepartureJun 2011 · He told Foreign Policy in June 2011 that he had a responsibility to his family and his two children.
Confirmed with three other nominees without a roll call, the Congressional Record shows. The Office of the Historian gives January 29, 2009 as his entry on duty and March 30, 2011 as the end of his appointment, although he was still in office in June 2011. Foreign Policy reported on June 14, 2011 that he would leave office the next month. The State Department's own deputy secretary page still named him on June 25, 2011 and no longer did on June 30, 2011.
Feb 28, 2013 — Jan 20, 2017Senate vote Feb 27, 2013
Details
AppointmentFeb 28, 2013 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Feb 27, 2013 · after Neal Wolin left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Sworn in by Vice President Biden on February 28, 2013, Talking Points Memo reported. AP had reported that morning that he was due to be sworn in that day.
Jack Lew, 2013 · United States Treasury Department · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Neal WolinJan 25, 2013 — Feb 28, 2013acting
AppointmentJan 25, 2013 · acting · after Timothy Geithner left
HandoverFeb 28, 2013 · Jack Lew took office.
Deputy Secretary of the Treasury. UPI reported on Geithner's last day that Wolin would lead the department until the Senate confirmed Jack Lew. The Treasury said he served as acting secretary from mid-January to late February 2013. The Treasury's page in February 2013 named him Acting Secretary and Deputy Secretary.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · acting · from the start of the term
HandoverJan 26, 2009 · Timothy Geithner took office.
Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. Fox News reported on January 21, 2009 that he was the placeholder at the Treasury while Geithner awaited confirmation.
Feb 17, 2015 — Jan 20, 2017Senate vote Feb 12, 2015
Details
AppointmentFeb 17, 2015 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Feb 12, 2015 · after Chuck Hagel left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Sworn in on February 17, 2015, the Defense Department's Historical Office says. Military Times reported that Deputy Secretary Robert Work would be acting secretary from noon on January 20, 2017.
Chuck HagelFeb 27, 2013 — Feb 17, 2015Senate-confirmed
AppointmentFeb 27, 2013 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Feb 26, 2013 · after Leon Panetta left
ResignationFeb 17, 2015 · His resignation was announced on November 24, 2014. An administration official said Hagel and President Obama mutually agreed it was time for him to leave and that he was not fired, MPR News reported. He stayed until his successor was confirmed.
Sworn in on February 27, 2013, the Defense Department's Historical Office says.
Leon PanettaJul 1, 2011 — Feb 26, 2013Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJul 1, 2011 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jun 21, 2011 · after Robert Gates left
DepartureFeb 26, 2013 · CBS News reported in January 2013 that he would leave the Pentagon the next month and return home to his walnut farm in California.
Director of the CIA before he took the post. Sworn in on July 1, 2011, the Defense Department's Historical Office says.
Robert GatesJan 20, 2009 — Jun 30, 2011Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term
DepartureJun 30, 2011 · He retired, VOA reported. President Obama gave him the Presidential Medal of Freedom on his last day in office.
Holdover. Sworn in on December 18, 2006 under President Bush. He was the only defense secretary asked by a newly elected president to stay in the office, the Defense Department's Historical Office says.
May 5, 2014 — Jan 20, 2017Senate vote Apr 30, 2014
Details
AppointmentMay 5, 2014 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Apr 30, 2014 · after Christine Fox left
Remained in the post after January 20, 2017. The Senate confirmed him without a roll call, the Congressional Record shows. The Defense Department called it a voice vote. Sworn in by Secretary Chuck Hagel at the Pentagon on May 5, 2014. The Historical Office dates his service to July 19, 2017.
AppointmentDec 5, 2013 · acting · after Ash Carter left
HandoverMay 5, 2014 · Robert Work took office.
Former director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation at the Pentagon. President Obama appointed her acting deputy secretary effective December 5, 2013, Nextgov reported.
Ash CarterOct 6, 2011 — Dec 4, 2013Senate-confirmed
AppointmentOct 6, 2011 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Sep 23, 2011 · after William Lynn left
ResignationDec 4, 2013 · He announced his resignation in October 2013 and wrote that it was time for him to go, CBS News reported.
Confirmed with other nominations without a roll call, the Congressional Record shows. Sworn in in a private Pentagon ceremony, the Defense Department reported. The Historical Office dates his service from October 6, 2011 to December 3, 2013. Nextgov and CBS News reported that he would step down on December 4, 2013.
Gordon EnglandJan 20, 2009 — Feb 2009Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term
DepartureFeb 2009
Holdover. Deputy Secretary of Defense under President Bush. The Defense Department's Historical Office dates his service as deputy secretary from January 2006 to February 2009. No source we opened gives his last day.
Loretta Lynch, 2015 · United States Department of Justice · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Eric HolderFeb 3, 2009 — Apr 24, 2015Senate-confirmed
AppointmentFeb 3, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Feb 2, 2009 · after Mark Filip left
ResignationApr 24, 2015 · His resignation was announced on September 25, 2014. President Obama said Holder had told him over the summer that six years was a pretty good run. Holder agreed to stay until his successor was confirmed.
Appointed on February 3, 2009 and stepped down on April 24, 2015, the Justice Department says.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · acting · from the start of the term
HandoverFeb 3, 2009 · Eric Holder took office.
A Bush appointee and former federal judge in Illinois. Fox News reported on January 21, 2009 that he was acting attorney general while Holder awaited confirmation.
AppointmentApr 12, 2013 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Apr 10, 2013 · after Ken Salazar left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Sworn in by retired Justice Sandra Day O'Connor at the Supreme Court on April 12, 2013, the Interior Department said. The department's calendar for January 2017 names both Secretary Sally Jewell and Acting Secretary Jack Haugrud.
Ken SalazarJan 20, 2009 — Apr 12, 2013Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 20, 2009 · from the start of the term
ResignationApr 12, 2013 · He said he looked forward to returning to his family and Colorado after eight years in Washington, the Interior Department said on January 16, 2013.
Confirmed with six other nominees by unanimous consent on Inauguration Day, the Congressional Record shows. The Interior Department said he was sworn in the same day.
AppointmentJan 13, 2017 · acting · after Tom Vilsack left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services, named acting secretary when Vilsack left, Agri-Pulse reported. Michael Young was acting secretary from noon on January 20, 2017, DTN reported.
Michael Scuse, 2012 · US Department of Agriculture · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Tom VilsackJan 21, 2009 — Jan 13, 2017Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 21, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 20, 2009
ResignationJan 13, 2017 · He left a week before the end of the term to become president and CEO of the U.S. Dairy Export Council, Agri-Pulse reported.
Confirmed with six other nominees by unanimous consent on Inauguration Day, the Congressional Record shows. Sworn in on January 21, 2009, the Agriculture Department said. He told employees in an email that January 13, 2017 was his last day, AP reported.
Moved to another postJun 1, 2013 · The University of Wisconsin System said in March 2013 that she was its choice for chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Madison and planned to start in July.
Deputy Secretary of Commerce, confirmed in March 2012. AP reported on June 11, 2012 that she would serve as acting secretary during Bryson's medical leave. She stayed acting secretary after he resigned. The department's home page still named her acting secretary on May 31, 2013 and named Cameron Kerry on June 3, 2013.
John BrysonOct 21, 2011 — Jun 21, 2012Senate-confirmed
AppointmentOct 21, 2011 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Oct 20, 2011 · after Rebecca Blank left
ResignationJun 21, 2012 · He resigned after a seizure. In his letter to President Obama he wrote that the seizure could distract from his work as secretary, WTOP reported.
Sworn in on October 21, 2011, the Commerce Department says. He began a medical leave of absence on June 11, 2012.
AppointmentAug 1, 2011 · acting · after Gary Locke left
HandoverOct 21, 2011 · John Bryson took office.
Acting Deputy Secretary of Commerce at the time, The Hill reported. The Commerce Department says she was acting secretary from August through October 2011.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · acting · from the start of the term
HandoverMar 26, 2009 · Gary Locke took office.
Chief Financial Officer of the Commerce Department. Fox News reported on January 21, 2009 that Bush holdovers had run several departments from noon on January 20, 2009 and named him at Commerce. Inside Trade reported on January 23, 2009 that he was acting secretary until the Senate confirmed a new secretary.
Tom Perez, 2013 · Tiffany L. Koebel · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Seth HarrisJan 22, 2013 — Jul 23, 2013acting
AppointmentJan 22, 2013 · acting · after Hilda Solis left
HandoverJul 23, 2013 · Tom Perez took office as Secretary of Labor on July 23, 2013.
Deputy Secretary of Labor since May 2009. He served as acting secretary after Solis resigned, Occupational Health and Safety reported on January 25, 2013. The start date is the end of Solis's tenure on the Labor Department's list.
Hilda SolisFeb 24, 2009 — Jan 22, 2013Senate-confirmed
AppointmentFeb 24, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Feb 24, 2009 · after Ed Hugler left
ResignationJan 22, 2013 · She gave no specific reason, CNN reported. In her letter to colleagues she wrote that over the holidays she had "enjoyed my first opportunity in years to reflect on the past and my future."
She submitted her resignation to President Obama on January 9, 2013. The Labor Department lists her tenure as February 24, 2009 to January 22, 2013. Vice President Biden held a ceremonial swearing-in on March 13, 2009.
AppointmentFeb 2009 · acting · after Howard Radzely left
HandoverFeb 24, 2009 · Hilda Solis took office as Secretary of Labor on February 24, 2009.
ISHN reported on February 6, 2009 that the administration had announced him as acting secretary that week. Labor Department notices dated February 10, 2009 and February 13, 2009 are signed by him as Acting Secretary of Labor.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · acting · from the start of the term
HandoverFeb 2009 · Ed Hugler became acting secretary.
Deputy Secretary of Labor. Fox News reported on January 21, 2009 that he had taken on the daily duties of the department while Hilda Solis awaited confirmation.
AppointmentJun 9, 2014 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jun 5, 2014 · after Kathleen Sebelius left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Previously Director of the Office of Management and Budget. The National Rural Health Association reported on June 9, 2014 that she was sworn in that day. Vice President Biden held a ceremonial swearing-in on June 24, 2014.
Kathleen SebeliusApr 28, 2009 — Jun 9, 2014Senate-confirmed
AppointmentApr 28, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Apr 28, 2009 · after Charles E. Johnson left
ResignationJun 9, 2014 · President Obama accepted her resignation, NPR reported. He named Sylvia Mathews Burwell to succeed her at a White House event on April 11, 2014.
Sworn in at the White House on the day of the Senate vote, with President Obama present.
Charles E. JohnsonJan 20, 2009 — Apr 28, 2009acting
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · acting · from the start of the term
HandoverApr 28, 2009 · Kathleen Sebelius was confirmed and sworn in as Secretary of Health and Human Services on April 28, 2009.
An HHS assistant secretary. Fox News reported that President Bush had appointed him in 2005 as assistant secretary for budget, technology and finance. The department's transition plan said he would serve as acting secretary from noon on January 20, 2009 until the secretary-designate was sworn in.
AppointmentJul 28, 2014 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jul 9, 2014 · after Shaun Donovan left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Chief Judge Richard W. Roberts administered the oath on July 28, 2014, HUD said. Vice President Biden held a ceremonial swearing-in on August 18, 2014.
AppointmentJan 26, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 22, 2009 · after Brian Montgomery left
Moved to another postJul 28, 2014 · He became Director of the Office of Management and Budget. The Senate confirmed him to that post on July 10, 2014 by 75 to 22.
HUD says he was sworn in on January 26, 2009. The Senate confirmed him without a recorded vote.
Anthony Foxx, 2013 · Department of Transportation · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Ray LaHoodJan 23, 2009 — Jul 2, 2013Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 23, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 22, 2009
ResignationJul 2, 2013 · He had announced his retirement earlier in 2013, The Hill reported. Governing reported that he left office on the day Anthony Foxx was sworn in.
The Transportation Department says he became secretary on January 23, 2009. The Senate confirmed him without a recorded vote.
Steven ChuJan 21, 2009 — Apr 22, 2013Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 21, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 20, 2009
ResignationApr 22, 2013 · He wrote to department staff that he and his wife were eager to return to California and that he wanted to return to an academic life of teaching and research.
The Energy Department says he was sworn in on January 21, 2009. The Senate confirmed him by unanimous consent on Inauguration Day. Renewable Energy World reported that April 22, 2013 was his last day.
John King Jr., 2015 · United States Department of Education · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
John King Jr.Jan 2016 — Mar 2016acting
AppointmentJan 2016 · acting · after Arne Duncan left
Permanent appointmentMar 2016 · Became Secretary of Education after Senate confirmation.
He had served as acting secretary since the start of 2016, Education Week reported. His biography for a House hearing on February 2, 2016 says he became Acting Secretary in January 2016.
Eric ShinsekiJan 21, 2009 — May 30, 2014Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 21, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 20, 2009
ResignationMay 30, 2014 · President Obama said the two of them agreed that Shinseki staying on would be too great a distraction while the VA worked to fix its problems, CBS News reported.
The VA says he was sworn in on January 21, 2009. The Senate confirmed him by unanimous consent on Inauguration Day.
AppointmentSep 6, 2013 · acting · after Janet Napolitano left
HandoverDec 23, 2013 · Jeh Johnson took office as Secretary of Homeland Security on December 23, 2013.
DHS says he became acting secretary on September 6, 2013. He had been acting deputy secretary since May 2013 and Under Secretary for the National Protection and Programs Directorate before that.
AppointmentJan 21, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 20, 2009 · after Michael Chertoff left
ResignationSep 6, 2013 · She resigned to head the University of California system, the Associated Press reported.
DHS says she was sworn in on January 21, 2009. The Senate confirmed her by unanimous consent on Inauguration Day. The DHS list of secretaries ends her tenure on September 6, 2013.
Lisa JacksonJan 26, 2009 — Feb 14, 2013Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 26, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 22, 2009 · after Mike Shapiro left
ResignationFeb 14, 2013 · She said she was "ready in my own life for new challenges, time with my family and new opportunities to make a difference," Agri-Pulse reported. She had said she would leave after the 2013 State of the Union address.
The EPA chronology gives her tenure as January 26, 2009 to February 14, 2013. The Senate confirmed her without a recorded vote.
AppointmentAug 9, 2010 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Aug 5, 2010 · after David Gompert left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Confirmed by unanimous consent. His official biography says he was sworn in on August 9, 2010. An ODNI spokesperson said in November 2016 that his resignation would take effect at noon on January 20, 2017, VOA reported.
James Clapper, 2010 · Office of the Director of National Intelligence · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
David GompertMay 28, 2010 — Aug 9, 2010acting
AppointmentMay 28, 2010 · acting · after Dennis Blair left
HandoverAug 9, 2010 · James Clapper was sworn in as Director of National Intelligence on August 9, 2010.
Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence since November 10, 2009. Senator Dianne Feinstein said that by law he became acting director until the Senate confirmed a new director, NBC News reported.
Dennis BlairJan 29, 2009 — May 28, 2010Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 29, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 28, 2009 · after Ronald Burgess left
ResignationMay 28, 2010 · He said he would step down. Two senior congressional officials told NBC News that after a meeting with Obama he had lost the confidence of the president.
ODNI says he became director on January 29, 2009. The Senate confirmed him without a recorded vote. He announced his resignation on May 20, 2010 and named May 28, 2010 as his last day, NBC News reported.
Mike McConnellJan 20, 2009 — Jan 27, 2009Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term
ResignationJan 27, 2009 · Senator Dianne Feinstein told the Senate on January 28, 2009 that he had resigned earlier that week.
Holdover. Washington Technology called him the outgoing Director of National Intelligence of the Bush administration on January 27, 2009. Senator Feinstein said his resignation had left the post vacant. CBS News reported that day that he was resigning.
AppointmentMar 8, 2013 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 7, 2013 · after Michael Morell left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
NPR reported on March 8, 2013 that he had been sworn in that morning. Meroe Park, who became acting director, told CBS News that Brennan and his deputy David Cohen stepped down at noon on January 20, 2017.
David PetraeusSep 6, 2011 — Nov 9, 2012Senate-confirmed
AppointmentSep 6, 2011 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jun 30, 2011 · after Michael Morell left
ResignationNov 9, 2012 · He told CIA staff he had shown "extremely poor judgment" by engaging in an extramarital affair, the Associated Press reported.
Vice President Biden swore him in at the White House on the morning of September 6, 2011, the CIA said. He resigned on November 9, 2012.
AppointmentJul 1, 2011 · acting · after Leon Panetta left
HandoverSep 6, 2011 · David Petraeus was sworn in as CIA Director on September 6, 2011.
Deputy CIA Director. He wrote to CIA employees as acting director on July 1, 2011, after Leon Panetta left. On September 6, 2011 Petraeus thanked him for serving as acting director for the past two months.
Leon PanettaFeb 13, 2009 — Jul 1, 2011Senate-confirmed
AppointmentFeb 13, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Feb 12, 2009 · after Michael Hayden left
Moved to another postJul 1, 2011 · He became Secretary of Defense. The Senate confirmed him to that post on June 21, 2011 by 100 to 0 and he was sworn in on July 1, 2011.
The CIA says he became director on February 13, 2009. The Senate confirmed him without a recorded vote.
Michael HaydenJan 20, 2009 — Feb 13, 2009Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term
ReplacedFeb 13, 2009 · Obama chose Leon Panetta to succeed him. Hayden wrote to CIA staff that the President-elect had asked him to stay on until the Senate confirmed a new director.
Holdover. He had led the CIA since May 2006, under President Bush. A CNN timeline gives February 12, 2009 as the day he stepped down.
Ron KirkMar 20, 2009 — Mar 15, 2013Senate-confirmed
AppointmentMar 20, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 18, 2009 · after Peter Allgeier left
DepartureMar 15, 2013
Vice President Biden administered the oath at a ceremony on March 20, 2009. USTR said on March 14, 2013 that Deputy Trade Representative Demetrios Marantis would serve as acting trade representative from March 15, 2013 as Kirk left after four years in the Cabinet.
HandoverMar 20, 2009 · Vice President Biden swore in Ron Kirk as Trade Representative on March 20, 2009.
Deputy Trade Representative. The law firm White & Case reported in its January 2009 trade newsletter that he had become acting trade representative after the inauguration on January 20, 2009. Trade Representative notices in the Federal Register of February and March 2009 are signed by him as Acting United States Trade Representative.
AppointmentAug 2, 2013 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Aug 1, 2013 · after Rosemary DiCarlo left
Vice President Biden administered the oath on August 2, 2013, the Associated Press reported. She presented her credentials at the UN on August 5, 2013. The State Department records the end of her mission on January 21, 2017. Remained in the post after January 20, 2017.
Samantha Power, 2013 · United States State Department · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Rosemary DiCarloJul 2013 — Aug 2, 2013acting
AppointmentJul 2013 · acting · after Susan Rice left
HandoverAug 2, 2013 · Vice President Biden swore in Samantha Power as ambassador on August 2, 2013.
Deputy U.S. ambassador to the UN. The U.S. Mission's text of her remarks to the Security Council on July 23, 2013 gives her title as Acting U.S. Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
Susan RiceJan 23, 2009 — Jun 30, 2013Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 23, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 22, 2009 · after Zalmay Khalilzad left
Moved to another postJun 30, 2013 · She became President Obama's national security adviser, the Associated Press reported.
The State Department records her appointment on January 23, 2009, the presentation of her credentials at the UN on January 26, 2009 and the end of her mission on June 30, 2013. The Senate confirmed her without a recorded vote. The same day it also confirmed her as representative to the sessions of the UN General Assembly.
AppointmentSep 4, 2013 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jul 29, 2013 · after Robert Mueller left
Confirmed for a ten-year term. Sworn in on September 4, 2013, the FBI says. President Obama installed him at a ceremony at FBI headquarters on October 28, 2013, Voice of America reported. Remained in the post after January 20, 2017.
James Comey, 2013 · Federal Bureau of Investigation · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Robert MuellerJan 20, 2009 — Sep 4, 2013Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term
DepartureSep 4, 2013 · His term ended on September 4, 2013. A 2011 law had extended it by two years, and he led the FBI for exactly 12 years, the FBI says.
Holdover. Nominated by President Bush and confirmed by the Senate on August 2, 2001 by 98 to 0 for a ten-year term. The Senate confirmed him again on July 27, 2011 by 100 to 0 for a term ending September 4, 2013.
AppointmentMay 18, 2015 · acting · after Michele Leonhart left
Chief of staff to FBI Director James Comey. The Justice Department announced on May 13, 2015 that he would take over on May 18, 2015, CBS News reported. Attorney General Loretta Lynch appointed him, the DEA says. Remained in the post after January 20, 2017.
Chuck Rosenberg, 2015 · Drug Enforcement Administration · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Michele LeonhartDec 2010 — May 2015Senate-confirmed
AppointmentDec 2010 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Dec 22, 2010
ResignationMay 2015 · She decided to retire beginning in mid-May, NPR reported on April 21, 2015. NPR wrote that lawmakers had said they had no confidence in her after an inspector general found that some DEA agents had sex parties with prostitutes paid for by drug cartels.
Confirmed without a roll call on December 22, 2010, the Congressional Record shows. The Justice Department welcomed her confirmation the next day.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · acting · from the start of the term
Permanent appointmentDec 2010 · The Senate confirmed her as administrator.
Holdover. Acting administrator since November 2007 and deputy administrator since 2004, according to her DEA biography. President Obama nominated her in February 2010.
AppointmentApr 1, 2015 · acting · after B. Todd Jones left
Deputy director. The Justice Department says he became acting director on April 1, 2015. His acting title expired on October 27, 2015 under the Vacancies Reform Act, and he went on leading ATF as deputy director. Remained in the post after January 20, 2017.
B. Todd JonesAug 29, 2013 — Mar 31, 2015Senate-confirmed
AppointmentAug 29, 2013 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jul 31, 2013
ResignationMar 31, 2015 · ATF announced on March 20, 2015 that Jones would resign effective March 31, the Associated Press reported.
The first ATF director confirmed by the Senate. Vice President Biden administered the oath at the White House on August 29, 2013, Occupational Health and Safety reported. The White House called it a ceremonial swearing-in.
AppointmentAug 31, 2011 · acting · after Kenneth Melson left
Permanent appointmentAug 29, 2013 · The Senate confirmed him as director.
U.S. attorney for Minnesota, who kept that post while leading ATF. The Justice Department announced on August 30, 2011 that he would become acting director on August 31, 2011.
Moved to another postAug 31, 2011 · The Justice Department named him senior adviser on forensic science in its Office of Legal Policy.
Director of the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys. Attorney General Eric Holder named him acting director, and he took the post on April 12, 2009, ATF said.
AppointmentJul 26, 2015 · acting · after Stacia Hylton left
Deputy director since February 2014. The Justice Department says he became acting director on July 26, 2015 and that his acting title would expire on February 20, 2016 under the Vacancies Reform Act, after which he would lead the service as deputy director for the rest of the Obama administration. Remained in the post after January 20, 2017.
AppointmentDec 31, 2010 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Dec 22, 2010 · after John F. Clark left
ResignationJul 26, 2015 · The Marshals Service announced her retirement on June 9, 2015 and said she had been planning it since the winter, AP reported. AP added that lawmakers had been scrutinizing the agency's hiring and spending.
Confirmed without a roll call on December 22, 2010, in place of John F. Clark, the Congressional Record shows. The Marshals Service dates her service from December 31, 2010. AFCEA's Signal magazine reported her swearing-in on January 3, 2011. AP wrote that she had served since January 2011.
John F. ClarkJan 20, 2009 — Dec 2010Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term
ResignationDec 2010 · The Washington Times called him the retiring director in a report on December 23, 2010, after the Senate confirmed his successor. The Congressional Record lists him as resigned.
Holdover. Sworn in as director on March 17, 2006 under President Bush, the Marshals Service says. The Marshals Service named him director in its news releases through 2010 and in its staff list in November 2010. Its list of directors names no one between him and Stacia Hylton, whose service it dates from December 31, 2010. His own last day is not on record.
AppointmentMay 2015 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on May 13, 2015
The Justice Department says she served as deputy attorney general from May 2015 to January 2017. Remained in the post after January 20, 2017, when she also became acting attorney general.
AppointmentJun 2011 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jun 28, 2011
ResignationJan 2015 · Cole announced that he was taking a job in the private sector, Tickle The Wire reported, citing The Washington Post.
The Justice Department says he served as deputy attorney general from June 2011 to January 2015. NPR reported on January 2, 2015 that he was leaving soon after four years in the job.
James ColeJan 3, 2011 — Jun 2011recess appointment
AppointmentJan 3, 2011 · recess appointment by the president · after Gary Grindler left
Permanent appointmentJun 2011 · The Senate confirmed him on June 28, 2011 by 55 to 42.
President Obama named him in a recess appointment while his nomination had been pending in the Senate since May, NPR reported on December 30, 2010. He was sworn in on Monday January 3, 2011, Law360 reported.
AppointmentFeb 5, 2010 · acting · after David Ogden left
HandoverJan 3, 2011 · James Cole was sworn in under a recess appointment.
Principal associate deputy attorney general. Attorney General Eric Holder announced on December 23, 2009 that Grindler would become acting deputy attorney general effective February 5, 2010, when Ogden left.
David OgdenMar 13, 2009 — Feb 5, 2010Senate-confirmed
AppointmentMar 13, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 12, 2009 · after Mark Filip left
ResignationFeb 5, 2010 · Ogden announced on December 3, 2009 that he would leave on February 5, 2010 to return to private practice at the law firm WilmerHale, the firm said.
Head of the Justice Department transition team. Sworn in on March 13, 2009, the Justice Department said.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term
DepartureFeb 2009
Holdover. Confirmed by the Senate in March 2008, the ABA Journal reported. The Justice Department says he served as deputy attorney general from March 2008 to February 2009. The Supreme Court's reports say he became acting attorney general effective January 20, 2009 and resigned effective February 3, 2009, when Eric Holder took the oath as attorney general.
AppointmentJun 25, 2016 · acting · after Donald Verrilli left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
The Supreme Court's reports say he became acting solicitor general effective June 25, 2016 and resigned effective January 20, 2017, when Noel Francisco became acting solicitor general.
Elena KaganMar 20, 2009 — May 17, 2010Senate-confirmed
AppointmentMar 20, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 19, 2009 · after Edwin Kneedler left
Moved to another postMay 17, 2010 · President Obama nominated her to the Supreme Court on May 10, 2010. Neal Katyal became acting solicitor general effective May 17, 2010, and she resigned as solicitor general effective August 6, 2010, the Supreme Court's reports say.
The Supreme Court's reports say she was commissioned on March 19, 2009, took the oath of office on March 20, 2009 and was presented to the Court on March 23, 2009. The Senate voted 63 to 37 on August 5, 2010 to confirm her as a justice.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · acting · from the start of the term
HandoverMar 20, 2009 · Elena Kagan took the oath of office.
Deputy solicitor general. The Supreme Court's reports say he became acting solicitor general effective January 19, 2009, when Gregory Garre resigned, and resigned that role effective March 20, 2009. Chief Justice Roberts said in court on March 23, 2009 that Kneedler had served as acting solicitor general since January 20, 2009.
Dec 23, 2014 — Jan 20, 2017Senate vote Dec 16, 2014
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Until July 2010 its head's title was Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security, and the Senate confirmed John Morton under that title. It then became Director, ICE says.
Details
AppointmentDec 23, 2014 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Dec 16, 2014 · after Thomas Winkowski left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Texas. ICE says she was sworn in as its fourth director on December 23, 2014. ICE held her retirement ceremony on January 11, 2017. DHS told GAO that the director post became vacant on January 20, 2017.
Sarah Saldaña, 2014 · United States Government · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Thomas WinkowskiMar 16, 2014 — Dec 23, 2014acting
AppointmentMar 16, 2014 · acting · after Daniel Ragsdale left
HandoverDec 23, 2014 · Sarah Saldaña was sworn in.
Appointed principal deputy assistant secretary for ICE on March 16, 2014, DHS says. Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson moved him from CBP days after Gil Kerlikowske was confirmed as CBP commissioner, FreightWaves reported. He led ICE under a title chosen so as not to limit how long he could serve.
AppointmentFeb 2014 · acting · after John Sandweg left
HandoverMar 16, 2014 · Thomas Winkowski was appointed to lead ICE.
Deputy director. ICE confirmed that he would be in charge until a new acting director was appointed, the Houston Chronicle reported on February 18, 2014.
AppointmentAug 2013 · acting · after John Morton left
ResignationFeb 2014 · Sandweg told employees he would return to the private sector and gave no explanation, Fox News reported.
A former defense attorney who came to Washington with Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano. He took the reins in August 2013, Fox News reported.
John MortonMay 14, 2009 — Jul 2013Senate-confirmed
AppointmentMay 14, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on May 12, 2009 · after John P. Torres left
ResignationJul 2013 · He left to work in the private sector, the Houston Chronicle reported.
Confirmed without a roll call on May 12, 2009, the Congressional Record shows. ICE said he was sworn in on May 14, 2009. He left in July 2013, FreightWaves reported.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · acting · from the start of the term
HandoverMay 14, 2009 · John Morton was sworn in.
Holdover. Acting assistant secretary of homeland security for ICE since November 17, 2008, according to his ICE biography. As deputy assistant secretary he officiated at Morton's swearing-in.
AppointmentMar 7, 2014 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Mar 6, 2014 · after Thomas Winkowski left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy before. Confirmed without a roll call on March 6, 2014, the Congressional Record shows. CBP lists him as its third commissioner from March 7, 2014 to January 20, 2017.
AppointmentDec 30, 2011 · acting · after Alan Bersin left
ResignationMar 30, 2013 · Aguilar retired at the end of March 2013, FreightWaves reported.
Deputy commissioner since April 2010, DHS said. CBP lists him as acting commissioner from December 30, 2011 to August 30, 2012, the number of days allowed by law. After that CBP called him deputy commissioner again while he ran the agency, FreightWaves reported.
Alan BersinMar 27, 2010 — Dec 30, 2011recess appointment
AppointmentMar 27, 2010 · recess appointment by the president · the post had been vacant
DepartureDec 30, 2011
The White House announced on March 27, 2010 that President Obama intended to give him a recess appointment as commissioner. CBP's list calls him acting commissioner from March 10, 2010 to December 30, 2011. He left office at the end of 2011, FreightWaves reported.
CBP says no acting commissioner was appointed from January 3, 2010 to March 27, 2010. Border Patrol chief David Aguilar ran the agency as acting deputy commissioner, FreightWaves reported. CBP says he never performed the duties of the commissioner.
AppointmentFeb 18, 2015 · appointed by the president
President Obama selected him, DHS said, and he was appointed the 24th director on February 18, 2015, the Secret Service says. Remained in the post after January 20, 2017.
AppointmentMar 27, 2013 · appointed by the president · after Mark Sullivan left
ResignationOct 1, 2014 · Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson announced her resignation on October 1, 2014 after a series of security lapses, Al Jazeera reported. White House spokesman Josh Earnest said Obama had concluded that new leadership was needed.
Chief of staff of the Secret Service and the first woman to lead it. President Obama named her on March 26, 2013, Security Magazine reported, and she was sworn in on March 27, 2013, the Secret Service says.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · appointed by the president · from the start of the term
ResignationFeb 2013 · Sullivan announced his retirement on February 1, 2013 after about 30 years with the agency, AP reported. AP wrote that his retirement would be effective Feb. 22.
Holdover. Director for about seven years under Presidents Bush and Obama, CBS News reported. When Julia Pierson was named on March 26, 2013, Security Magazine, citing AP, wrote that she would take over from Sullivan.
Oct 1, 2015 — Jan 20, 2017Senate vote Jul 29, 2015
Details
AppointmentOct 1, 2015 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jul 29, 2015 · after Martin Dempsey left
Commandant of the Marine Corps before. Confirmed by a voice vote on July 29, 2015, Fox News reported. The Joint Chiefs date his term from October 1, 2015. Remained in the post after January 20, 2017.
Joseph Dunford, 2010 · United States Marine Corps · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Martin DempseyOct 1, 2011 — Sep 30, 2015Senate-confirmed
AppointmentOct 1, 2011 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Aug 2, 2011 · after Mike Mullen left
DepartureSep 30, 2015 · Dempsey retired after a 41-year career, Fox News reported.
Army chief of staff before. Confirmed by the Senate on Tuesday August 2, 2011, Army News Service reported. The Senate approved a second two-year term by voice vote on August 1, 2013, AP reported.
Mike MullenJan 20, 2009 — Sep 30, 2011Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term
DepartureSep 30, 2011 · Mullen retired on September 30, 2011, Army News Service reported.
Holdover. Chairman since October 1, 2007, the Joint Chiefs say. The Senate confirmed his reappointment as chairman on September 25, 2009 without a roll call, the Congressional Record shows.
May 18, 2016 — Jan 20, 2017Senate vote May 17, 2016
Details
AppointmentMay 18, 2016 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on May 17, 2016 · after Patrick Murphy left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Confirmed by voice vote on May 17, 2016, the Senate Democrats' floor log shows. Defense Secretary Ash Carter swore him in on May 18, 2016, Army Times reported. A Deputy Secretary of Defense memo named Robert Speer acting secretary from noon on January 20, 2017.
AppointmentNov 2015 · acting · after John McHugh left
HandoverJan 11, 2016 · Fanning stepped aside while the Senate had not confirmed his nomination. The Pentagon said he did so "as a show of comity" with the Senate, AP reported.
Acting under secretary of the Army since June 2015. He served as acting secretary after McHugh stepped down, AP reported. President Obama nominated him for secretary on November 3, 2015.
John McHughSep 21, 2009 — Nov 1, 2015Senate-confirmed
AppointmentSep 21, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Sep 16, 2009 · after Pete Geren left
ResignationNov 1, 2015 · McHugh announced that he would resign effective November 1, 2015. He had told the defense secretary and deputy defense secretary several weeks earlier that he wanted to leave, the Army said.
Republican congressman from New York. Confirmed without a roll call on September 16, 2009, the Congressional Record shows. Sworn in on September 21, 2009, the Army said.
Pete GerenJan 20, 2009 — Sep 21, 2009Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term
DepartureSep 21, 2009
Holdover. Air Force Magazine reported in March 2009 that Geren remained Army secretary for the time being. John McHugh was sworn in as his successor on September 21, 2009.
May 19, 2009 — Jan 20, 2017Senate vote May 18, 2009
Details
AppointmentMay 19, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on May 18, 2009 · after BJ Penn left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Former governor of Mississippi. Confirmed without a roll call on May 18, 2009, the Congressional Record shows. Sworn in as the 75th secretary on May 19, 2009, the Navy said. A Deputy Secretary of Defense memo named Sean Stackley acting secretary from noon on January 20, 2017.
Donald WinterJan 20, 2009 — Mar 13, 2009Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term
ResignationMar 13, 2009 · Winter resigned as planned on March 13, 2009. He had agreed to stay until then to ease the transition at the Defense Department, the Navy said.
Holdover. Secretary of the Navy since January 3, 2006.
Dec 20, 2013 — Jan 20, 2017Senate vote Dec 13, 2013
Details
AppointmentDec 20, 2013 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Dec 13, 2013 · after Eric Fanning left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
The second woman in the post. An Air Force photo caption says she was sworn in as the 23rd secretary at the Pentagon on December 20, 2013, with a public ceremony planned for January. A Deputy Secretary of Defense memo named Lisa Disbrow acting secretary from noon on January 20, 2017.
Dec 18, 2014 — Jan 20, 2017Senate vote Dec 15, 2014
Details
AppointmentDec 18, 2014 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Dec 15, 2014 · after Boris Lushniak left
Sworn in on December 18, 2014, Scrip reported. He was still surgeon general when HHS dismissed him in April 2017, AP reported. Remained in the post after January 20, 2017.
Regina BenjaminNov 2009 — Jul 16, 2013Senate-confirmed
AppointmentNov 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Oct 29, 2009 · after Donald Weaver left
ResignationJul 16, 2013 · She announced in June 2013 that she would step down the next month. She planned to return to the clinic she founded in Bayou La Batre, Alabama, NPR reported.
Confirmed with no roll call. Nominated by President Obama in July 2009. On November 19, 2009, the Surgeon General's office published a statement she signed as surgeon general. GovExec reported that she resigned on July 16, 2013.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · acting · from the start of the term
HandoverOct 2009 · Donald Weaver became acting surgeon general.
A Public Health Service rear admiral, acting surgeon general since October 2007, the Surgeon General's office said. He had led the FDA's drug center before that. The office's website still named him acting surgeon general on October 2, 2009.
AppointmentJun 8, 2009 · appointed by the president · after Richard Besser left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Named CDC director by the White House and HHS on May 15, 2009. He had led the New York City Health Department since 2002. He ceased being director at noon on January 20, 2017, Food Safety News reported.
HandoverJun 8, 2009 · Thomas Frieden took office. Besser returned to lead CDC's office for terrorism preparedness and emergency response.
CDC said he had been acting director since mid-January 2009. CIDRAP reported on January 27, 2009, citing a notice on the CDC website, that he took the helm on January 22. CIDRAP wrote that Julie Gerberding had stepped down as President Obama took office. The HHS transition plan had named Besser acting director for the period from noon on January 20, 2009.
Aug 17, 2009 — Jan 20, 2017Senate vote Aug 7, 2009
Details
AppointmentAug 17, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Aug 7, 2009 · after Raynard Kington left
Confirmed with no roll call. President Obama announced his nomination on July 8, 2009. STAT reported on January 19, 2017, that he would stay on under President Trump. Remained in the post after January 20, 2017.
Francis Collins, 2009 · Bill Branson, NIH · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Raynard KingtonJan 20, 2009 — Aug 17, 2009acting
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · acting · from the start of the term
HandoverAug 17, 2009 · Francis Collins was sworn in. Kington returned to his post as NIH principal deputy director.
NIH said in 2009 that he had served as acting director since mid-October 2008. The NIH almanac online in January 2009 dates his appointment to October 31, 2008.
AppointmentApr 2015 · acting · after Margaret Hamburg left
HandoverFeb 2016 · Robert Califf took office.
FDA chief scientist. Hamburg wrote that he had agreed to serve as acting commissioner when she stepped down. The FDA gives his acting service as April 5, 2015, to February 23, 2016, on one page and April 7, 2015, to February 22, 2016, on another.
Margaret HamburgMay 22, 2009 — Apr 2015Senate-confirmed
AppointmentMay 22, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on May 18, 2009 · after Joshua Sharfstein left
ResignationApr 2015 · She told FDA staff in a letter that she would step down at the end of March 2015, RAPS reported on February 5, 2015.
Confirmed with no roll call. HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius swore her in on May 22, 2009, the FDA said that year. The FDA now gives her service as May 18, 2009, to April 6, 2015.
AppointmentMar 2015 · acting · after Marilyn Tavenner left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
CMS principal deputy administrator. HHS Secretary Sylvia Burwell said he would take over as acting administrator when Tavenner left. He signed a CMS notice as acting administrator on March 13, 2015. A CMS memo said Patrick Conway would be acting administrator from January 20, 2017.
Donald BerwickJul 12, 2010 — Dec 2, 2011recess appointment
AppointmentJul 12, 2010 · recess appointment by the president · after Marilyn Tavenner left
ResignationDec 2, 2011 · The White House announced on November 23, 2011, that he had resigned effective December 2. To keep him past 2011 President Obama would have had to send his nomination to the Senate again, where conservative Republicans remained opposed, Healthcare Innovation reported.
President Obama gave him a recess appointment on July 7, 2010, after Republican opposition to his nomination, Healthcare Innovation reported. He was sworn in on July 12, 2010, UPI reported.
AppointmentApr 2010 · acting · after Charlene Frizzera left
HandoverJul 12, 2010 · Donald Berwick took office.
CMS principal deputy administrator. She signed CMS notices as acting administrator from April 28, 2010, to at least June 29, 2010, the Federal Register shows.
HandoverApr 19, 2010 · Marilyn Tavenner became acting administrator.
HHS told the GAO that she became acting administrator on January 22, 2009, and served until April 19, 2010. The GAO found that her service after November 16, 2009, broke the time limit of the Vacancies Reform Act.
Until February 3, 2014 the title was Chairman. Janet Yellen took the oath as Chair, and the Fed used that form from then.
Details
AppointmentFeb 3, 2014 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 6, 2014 · after Ben Bernanke left
Vice chair of the Board before she became chair. President Obama announced her nomination on October 9, 2013. Governor Daniel Tarullo administered the oath. Her term as chair was to end on February 3, 2018. Remained in the post after January 20, 2017.
Janet Yellen, 2015 · United States Federal Reserve · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Ben BernankeFeb 1, 2010 — Jan 31, 2014Senate-confirmed
AppointmentFeb 1, 2010 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jan 28, 2010
Term endedJan 31, 2014 · His second term as chair ended on January 31, 2014, the Federal Reserve said.
President Obama announced on August 25, 2009, that he would renominate him. Vice Chairman Donald Kohn administered the oath at a ceremony on February 3, 2010.
AppointmentNov 10, 2012 · acting · after Douglas Shulman left
ResignationMay 21, 2013 · On May 15, 2013, President Obama said he had directed Treasury Secretary Jack Lew to accept the acting commissioner's resignation. It followed an inspector general's report on IRS scrutiny of conservative groups seeking tax-exempt status, NPR reported.
IRS deputy commissioner for services and enforcement. The IRS named him acting commissioner after Shulman's term. In his resignation letter he wrote that his acting assignment would end in early June.
Douglas ShulmanJan 20, 2009 — Nov 9, 2012Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term
Term endedNov 9, 2012 · The IRS said he would step down on November 9, 2012, the last day of his term. He had said earlier in 2012 that he planned to leave at the end of his term.
Holdover. Commissioner since March 24, 2008, under President George W. Bush.
AppointmentApr 10, 2013 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Apr 8, 2013 · after Elisse Walter left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Confirmed as a commissioner with no roll call, for the rest of a term expiring June 5, 2014. The SEC lists her as chair from April 10, 2013, to January 20, 2017.
Mary Jo White, 2013 · U. S. Securities and Exchange Commission · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Elisse WalterDec 15, 2012 — Apr 9, 2013appointed
AppointmentDec 15, 2012 · appointed by the president · after Mary Schapiro left
ReplacedApr 9, 2013 · Mary Jo White became chair on April 10, 2013, the SEC says.
A sitting SEC commissioner. The White House said on November 26, 2012 that President Obama would designate her chairman after Mary Schapiro left. The SEC lists her as chairman from December 15, 2012.
Nov 4, 2013 — Jan 20, 2017Senate vote Oct 29, 2013
Details
AppointmentNov 4, 2013 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Oct 29, 2013 · after Mignon Clyburn left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Confirmed as a commissioner with no roll call, for a five-year term from July 1, 2013. The FCC lists him as chairman from November 4, 2013, to January 20, 2017.
AppointmentMay 18, 2013 · acting · after Julius Genachowski left
HandoverNov 4, 2013 · Tom Wheeler took office.
An FCC commissioner. President Obama asked her to serve as acting chair until Tom Wheeler was confirmed. In a statement to staff on May 20, 2013, she said she had become acting chair at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, May 18. The FCC lists her as acting chairwoman from May 20 to November 4, 2013.
Julius GenachowskiJun 29, 2009 — May 17, 2013Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJun 29, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jun 25, 2009 · after Michael Copps left
ResignationMay 17, 2013 · He told FCC staff on March 22, 2013, that he would step down in the coming weeks, NPR reported.
Confirmed as a commissioner with no roll call, for a five-year term from July 1, 2008. The FCC lists him as chairman from June 29, 2009, to May 17, 2013.
AppointmentMar 4, 2013 · appointed by the president · after Jon Leibowitz left
An FTC commissioner since April 5, 2010. The FTC lists her as chairwoman from March 4, 2013, to January 25, 2017. Remained in the post after January 20, 2017.
AppointmentFeb 14, 2013 · acting · after Michael Astrue left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
SSA deputy commissioner since January 2011, Government Executive reported. SSA lists her as acting commissioner from February 14, 2013, to January 20, 2017.
Carolyn Colvin, 2013 · United States Social Security Administration · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Michael AstrueJan 20, 2009 — Feb 13, 2013Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term
Term endedFeb 13, 2013 · His six-year term expired on January 19, 2013. SSA lists his service as ending on February 13, 2013.
Holdover. SSA lists his service from February 12, 2007, under President George W. Bush. He served on under the holdover rules of the agency's law after his term ended, Government Executive reported.
AppointmentMay 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on May 12, 2009 · after Nancy Ward left
Term endedJan 2017 · He stepped down in January 2017 as the Trump administration took office, Nextgov reported.
Confirmed with no roll call. He had led Florida's emergency management division. On May 19, 2009, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano called him newly sworn in.
Craig Fugate, 2009 · Federal Emergency Management Agency · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons
Nancy WardJan 21, 2009 — May 2009acting
AppointmentJan 21, 2009 · acting · after David Paulison left
HandoverMay 2009 · Craig Fugate took office.
FEMA lists her as acting administrator from January to May 2009. Government Executive reported that she would serve as acting administrator when Paulison stepped aside on January 21, 2009.
David PaulisonJan 20, 2009 — Jan 21, 2009Senate-confirmed
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate · from the start of the term
ResignationJan 21, 2009 · FEMA says he had announced his resignation, effective January 21, 2009.
Holdover. President George W. Bush appointed him in September 2005, FEMA says. He would step aside on the day after President Obama took office, Government Executive reported.
AppointmentJul 17, 2009 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Jul 15, 2009 · after Christopher Scolese left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
Confirmed with no roll call. NASA's 12th administrator. He was sworn in on July 17, 2009, Space.com reported. Robert Lightfoot took over as acting administrator on January 20, 2017, Aviation Week reported.
Christopher ScoleseJan 20, 2009 — Jul 17, 2009acting
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · acting · from the start of the term
HandoverJul 17, 2009 · Charles Bolden took office.
NASA associate administrator. NASA says he served as acting administrator from January 20, 2009, until July 2009. The same NASA page gives his acting service as January 21 to July 16, 2009. Mike Griffin left with the change of administration, Via Satellite reported.
AppointmentJul 10, 2015 · acting · after Katherine Archuleta left
Term endedJan 20, 2017 · The Obama administration ended on January 20, 2017.
OMB deputy director for management and chief performance officer. She took over as acting director when Archuleta's resignation took effect, Roll Call reported.
AppointmentNov 4, 2013 · nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate on Oct 30, 2013 · after Elaine Kaplan left
ResignationJul 10, 2015 · In her statement she said she believed it was best for her to step aside and allow new leadership to step in, Roll Call reported.
Sworn in on the morning of November 4, 2013, the White House said. Her resignation took effect at the end of the day on July 10, 2015.
Kathie Ann WhippleJan 23, 2009 — Apr 13, 2009acting
AppointmentJan 23, 2009 · acting · after Michael Hager left
HandoverApr 13, 2009 · John Berry took office.
An OPM lawyer. OPM says she served as acting director from January through April 2009. OPM announced on January 23, 2009 that the White House had named her acting director, effective immediately.
AppointmentJan 20, 2009 · acting · from the start of the term
HandoverJan 23, 2009 · Kathie Ann Whipple became acting director.
Holdover. VA assistant secretary for human resources and administration. President Bush had directed him to perform the duties of OPM director from August 14, 2008. Government Executive called him the departing acting director on January 23, 2009.
CMS: the GAO said the administrator post was vacant on January 20, 2009 and Charlene Frizzera became acting administrator on January 22, 2009. No source we opened names who led CMS from January 20, 2009 to January 22, 2009. Sources 1
SEC: the SEC lists Christopher Cox as chairman to January 20, 2009 and Mary Schapiro from January 27, 2009. No one is on record in between. Sources 1
FCC: the FCC lists Kevin Martin as chairman to January 19, 2009 and Michael Copps as acting chairman from January 22, 2009. No one is on record from January 20, 2009 to January 22, 2009. Sources 1
FTC: the FTC said on February 1, 2013 that Jon Leibowitz would step down on February 15, 2013, but its page lists his time in office to March 8, 2013, and Edith Ramirez became chairwoman on March 4, 2013. No source we opened says who led the FTC between February 15, 2013 and March 4, 2013. Sources 12
Federal Reserve: Ben Bernanke's second term as chair ended on January 31, 2014 and Janet Yellen took the oath on February 3, 2014. No source we opened names a chair for February 1, 2014 and February 2, 2014. Sources 12
OPM: John Berry's term expired on April 13, 2013 and Elaine Kaplan began as acting director on April 15, 2013. No one is on record in between. Sources 1
CMS: HHS told the GAO that Charlene Frizzera served as acting administrator until April 19, 2010. Marilyn Tavenner signed CMS notices as acting administrator from April 28, 2010. No source we opened gives the day she took over. Healthcare Innovation wrote that she was acting administrator from February 2010, but Frizzera still signed as acting administrator in March 2010, the GAO said. Sources 12
Transportation: Fox News reported on January 21, 2009 that a Bush administration holdover took charge of the department at noon on January 20, 2009, but did not name the person. Ray LaHood became secretary on January 23, 2009. No source we opened names who led the department before him. Sources 12
Deputy Secretary of State: the Office of the Historian ends John Negroponte's appointment on January 23, 2009 and gives January 29, 2009 as James Steinberg's entry on duty. No source we opened names anyone in the post in between. Sources 12
Deputy Secretary of State: the Office of the Historian ends Antony Blinken's appointment on January 19, 2017. No source we opened names anyone in the post on January 20, 2017. Sources 1
Secret Service: AP reported that Mark Sullivan's retirement would take effect on February 22, 2013. An AP report of March 26, 2013 still called him the retiring director, when President Obama named Julia Pierson to take over. No source we opened says who led the agency between February 22, 2013 and Pierson's start. Sources 12
Senate votes were checked against Voteview's copy of the Senate roll calls and the Congressional Record daily digest on the Government Publishing Office's website.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The federal government's chief public health doctor, who warns the country about health risks. The post leads the uniformed Public Health Service corps.
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.
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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