Another Trump aide quits as he faces probe
President Donald Trump’s Interior Secretary, who is facing federal investigations into his conduct, is to leave his post.
Mr Trump announced Ryan Zinke’s departure from his cabinet on Twitter, saying he had “accomplished much during his tenure”.
More than 50 highranking officials have left Mr Trump’s administration since he was elected two years ago.
It was not clear if Mr Zinke had resigned or was fired, however the ex-Navy Seal and former Republican congressman from Montana has been accused of ethics violations.
As interior minister he was responsible for federal land, including national parks such as Yosemite and Yellowstone.
He is facing more than a dozen investigations for his conduct in office, including scrutiny for a land deal. Mr Zinke has denied any wrongdoing.
He is leaving his post weeks before Democrats take control of the House, giving them powers to subpoena and intensifying moves against him.
The president named budget director Mick Mulvaney as chief of staff on Friday. He replaces John Kelly.
The change came as Mr Trump’s former lawyer Michael Cohen said the President knew hush money payments were made during the 2016 presidential campaign.
Speaking after he was sentenced to prison for campaign finance and fraud crimes, Mr Cohen said: “He directed me to make the payments.”
Mr Trump denies this.