State Department deputy denies reports of department chaos

The second-highest-ranking official at the State Department on Tuesday denied media reports that the agency is in a state of chaos. 

“The notion that’s been out in the press and the media of a hollowed-out State Department that is not effective is counterfactual,” Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan told reporters following a town hall with employees, as reported by CNN.

{mosads}The comments come after new reports emerged that the State Department is in turmoil, including one recently reported resignation, under the tenure of Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. Another report last month said Tillerson was considering an early exit from Foggy Bottom, which the secretary denied.

Sullivan maintained that Tillerson is “committed” to the agency’s “mission.”

“The guy is committed to the mission of the department, is engaged with career staff who brief him,” the deputy reportedly said.

“I think there is really a misconception of the department and what we are doing in the department and his role in the department.”