White House gatekeeper in the spotlight

• "[I]t is a sign of her influence with Trump, and her unusual role in the West Wing, that no one is seriously talking about removing Hicks even as the turmoil is threatening Kelly’s job."
• The background: "As a teen, she modeled for Ralph Lauren. After graduating from Southern Methodist University, she worked for a PR firm that counted the Trump Organization as a client. The Trumps persuaded her to work directly for the family business; among other duties, she helped publicize Ivanka Trump’s fashion and accessory line."

P.S. N.Y. Times, "As Other Aides Face Trump’s Ire Over Rob Porter’s Departure, Hope Hicks Is Praised," by Katie Rogers:

• Trump in a statement released through a spokesman: “Hope is absolutely fantastic ... She was with the campaign from the beginning, and I could not ask for anything more. Hope is smart, very talented and respected by all.”