President Donald Trump has appointed Katie Bailey as the new director of the White House Office of Legislative Affairs, a role that serves as the administration’s primary liaison to Congress. Bailey, who currently holds the title of special assistant to the president and deputy director of legislative affairs, accepted the promotion on Friday, according to multiple sources.
The appointment comes less than a month before the midterm elections, with control of both the House and Senate hanging in the balance. Republicans currently hold a slim majority in both chambers. Bailey will replace James Braid, who stepped down from the position last month. Vice President JD Vance announced Braid’s departure, praising his contributions to major legislative achievements during his tenure, including the largest tax cut in U.S. history, funding for the border wall, and the confirmation of the cabinet in record time.
Bailey brings prior experience in legislative affairs, having served as legislative director for Indiana Republican Senator Mike Braun during his six-year term in office. Braun’s term concluded in January 2025 when he was elected governor of Indiana. Her new role will require navigating a politically divided Congress as the administration seeks to advance its agenda.
The White House has not yet issued a formal statement on Bailey’s appointment. The Office of Legislative Affairs is responsible for coordinating with Congress on policy priorities, legislative strategy, and communications between the executive and legislative branches.