Grace Sawyer Appointed Deputy Chief of Staff
COMMUNICATIONS, MEDIA AND PRESS OFFICE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release | January 25, 2026
Grace Sawyer Appointed Deputy Chief of Staff
WASHINGTON - AKSM Media is pleased to announce the appointment of Grace Sawyer as the new Deputy Chief of Staff. Miss Sawyer transitioned into this executive role following a distinguished two-year tenure as Chief White House Producer, where she transformed AKSM Media’s presence at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
During her time leading the White House Division, Miss Sawyer was the primary architect of the network's most complex logistical and editorial operations. Her leadership was defined by a steady hand during era-defining moments, including:
The 2024 Presidential Election: Spearheading comprehensive, multi-platform coverage.
The 2024 Russia-United States Prisoner Swap: Managing high-stakes breaking news logistics under extreme pressure.
The State Funeral of Former President Jimmy Carter: Overseeing the solemn and intricate planning required for national transition ceremonies.
The 2025 Presidential Transition: Directly managing the shift between the Biden and Trump administrations.
Perhaps her most enduring legacy is the cultivation of AKSM Media’s relationship with the Biden and Trump administrations. Under her guidance, the network continued a reputation for rigorous, non-partisan reporting, fostering what is now considered one of the most effective and professional working relationships within the White House briefing room.
Reflecting on her departure from the White House beat, Miss Sawyer shared the following:
"It is with both excitement and sadness that I announce my transition from Chief White House Producer to Deputy Chief of Staff at AKSM Media. With the White House team, I have learned so much professionally, been given absolutely incredible opportunities and have had the luck of finding colleagues that have become great friends. As Deputy Chief of Staff I am excited to keep learning and growing personally and professionally, and I look forward to seeing what the future holds."
As Miss Sawyer moves to the executive suite, AKSM Media is proud to announce that Abigail Gambla has been appointed as her successor. Miss Gambla takes the helm of the White House team effective immediately, inheriting a robust operation primed for the next chapter of political coverage.
"Grace has been a cornerstone of our newsroom's integrity and operational success," said chief White House correspondent Emily Barkann. "While we will miss her daily presence in the West Wing, her vision as Deputy Chief of Staff will be instrumental in guiding the entire network forward. We are equally confident that Abigail Gambla will continue the high standard of excellence Grace has established."
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