Paige Willey, top Hassett deputy, departs White House

Zoom in: The council touches the major pillars of the U.S. economy — tax, finance, banking, technology, competition policy, agriculture, energy, housing, infrastructure, transportation, economic security, foreign investments and export controls.

• The council also acts as a key touchpoint for companies and CEOs seeking an audience with the administration.
• Willey has served as Deputy Assistant to the President for Economic Policy and Deputy Director of the National Economic Council.

Zoom out: Willey's announcement is one in a string of departures for the administration as President Trump faces his final midterm and therefore the last two years in office.

What they're saying: Hassett, who has worked closely with Willey for a decade, praised her work ethic, "brilliant economic mind and rare ability to collegially shape opinion on contentious issues."

• "Everyone at NEC is proud to have had the honor to serve with her," Hassett said.

Kush Desai, White House senior deputy press secretary, called Willey an "instrumental asset."

• "While her departure is a loss for the entire team, we wish Paige the best of luck in her next chapter," Desai said.