Mike Johnson's Chief of Staff Hayden Haynes to Depart, Garrett Fultz to Succeed

Hayden Haynes, a long-time aide to Speaker Mike Johnson, is resigning from his role as chief of staff in early June. Garrett Fultz will take over the position. Haynes has been a pivotal figure in Johnson's rise and was instrumental in significant legislative achievements, including the passage of President Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act. However, his tenure was marred by controversy, including a DUI arrest. The transition also includes several promotions within Johnson's team, marking a significant shift in leadership.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 30, 2026, 00:26 IST

Hayden Haynes Steps Down as Chief of Staff

Hayden Haynes, a key aide to Speaker Mike Johnson, is set to resign from his position as chief of staff in early June, as confirmed by Johnson's office on Friday. Garrett Fultz, who currently holds the role of deputy chief of staff, will take over the position following Haynes's departure, according to a report from a news outlet.

A Longstanding Relationship

Haynes and Johnson have a history that dates back several years. He was Johnson's campaign manager during his initial congressional run in 2016 and transitioned to chief of staff after Johnson's election victory. Haynes remained in this role throughout Johnson's unexpected rise to the Speakership in 2023, following the ousting of Kevin McCarthy.

Significant Achievements Under Haynes

During his tenure, Haynes was instrumental in navigating some of the most challenging moments in Congress. He notably contributed to the passage of President Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a significant domestic initiative that marked a key legislative success during Trump's second term. The bill was approved by a narrow margin of just one vote.

Challenges Faced

However, Haynes's time in office was not without controversy. In March 2025, coinciding with Trump's joint address to Congress, he was arrested for DUI after allegedly colliding with a parked car. He entered a not guilty plea the following month. Johnson publicly supported Haynes during this incident, expressing his trust and confidence in him.

Leadership Transition

With Haynes's exit, Fultz will assume the chief of staff role. Additionally, Johnson's office has announced several promotions within the team, including Chris Bien as floor director, Courtney Butcher as member services director, and Bill Duhnke as policy director, all moving up to deputy chief of staff positions. The future plans of Haynes post-departure remain unclear, with the news of his resignation initially reported by another media outlet.