Mike Needham, a long-time adviser to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, has been appointed as the deputy national security adviser, enhancing Rubio's influence over national security policy. Needham, who previously served as State Department counselor and head of policy planning, will replace Robert Gabriel, who recently departed from the role. His promotion reflects a strategic shift in the Trump administration, as Rubio also serves as acting national security adviser. In his new position, Needham is expected to collaborate closely with Andy Baker, a foreign policy adviser to Vice President JD Vance. Needham has been influential in significant diplomatic discussions, including those related to Greenland and Lebanon, and has overseen sensitive policy decisions at the State Department. His elevation is seen as a move to ensure better alignment between the National Security Council and the State Department, a goal that has historically been challenging for previous administrations. Dan Holler, currently chief of staff at the State Department, will take over Needham's former roles, while Matt Rhodes, a former Goldman Sachs executive, will step in as chief of staff to Holler.