May 5, 2023 - Politics & Policy

Scoop: Neera Tanden to lead Domestic Policy Council

Neera Tanden testifies before the Senate Budget Committee in February 2021. Photo: Anna Moneymaker-Pool/Getty Images

Neera Tanden will replace Susan Rice as the head of the Domestic Policy Council, according to Biden officials familiar with the move.

  • Stef Feldman, senior adviser to Rice and a longtime Biden aide, will replace Tanden as staff secretary, the important post that controls the flow of paper into the Oval Office.

Why it matters: It further boosts Tanden in the Biden White House after she started the administration with a failed confirmation battle to lead the Office of Management and Budget.

Between the lines: Tanden's portfolio will include economic mobility, racial equity, health care, immigration and education, according to the White House.

  • Feldman, a Biden loyalist who was policy director on his presidential campaign and worked for him during the Obama administration, now will help oversee the presidential decision-making process for the economic, national security and domestic policy teams.

What they're saying: "While growing up, Neera relied on some of the critical programs that she will oversee as Domestic Policy Advisor, and I know those insights will serve my administration and the American people well," President Biden said in a statement.

  • "I look forward to continuing to work closely with Neera in her new role."
  • On Feldman's new position, Biden said: "Stef is one of my longest-serving and most trusted advisors....I have now asked her to serve as staff secretary because I know I can trust her to ensure that I am equipped with the best advice and counsel.”
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