Senior US Treasury official plans exit amid rising trade tensions: Reports

By Esra Tekin

ISTANBUL (AA) - A senior official at the US Treasury Department has informed colleagues she plans to leave the Trump administration amid escalating trade talks, and may pursue a role in the private sector, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Julia Hahn announced her decision to step down soon, with two sources indicating she is likely planning to launch her own public affairs firm, CBS News reported.

Hahn, 34, began her White House career at age 25 during US President Donald Trump’s first term, working under then-chief strategist Stephen Bannon.

She later served as deputy White House communications director, where she defended Trump during his first impeachment trial.

In her current role, Hahn has focused on trade policy, sanctions and tax cuts during Trump’s second term.

"As she embarks on her next chapter, we wish her continued success and know she will carry forward the same passion and excellence that defined her time here," Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CBS News.

Calling Hahn an "invaluable asset" to the Treasury Department, White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller told CBS News: "While her departure is a major loss to the administration, we know that she will continue to be an extraordinary ally on the outside."

Before joining the Trump administration, Hahn worked for Republican Sen. Bill Hagerty of Tennessee, served as a producer for Laura Ingraham’s radio show and was a reporter at Breitbart News while Bannon was an executive there.