Trump floats Kellyanne Conway as chief of staff

Conway would likely face pushback from Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, who also works in the White House. Conway and Kushner are not friendly, two people familiar with the matter said.

Conway has been in the middle of Trump’s barbs with her husband, George, a conservative lawyer who frequently makes headlines for his criticism of the president. George Conway said earlier this month that White House aides should resign unless they can “have some moderating or blunting effect” on Trump. He refused to discuss his wife, who has worked for Trump since the 2016 presidential campaign.

Trump also floated Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and deputy chief of staff Chris Liddell as possible Mulvaney replacements. Trump’s closest associates have compiled a list of other potentials, including former acting Attorney General Matthew Whitaker, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, and veteran political operative Wayne Berman.

Kushner would also likely oppose Christie’s appointment. Christie prosecuted Kushner’s father, Charles, more than a decade ago for tax evasion, witness tampering, and making illegal campaign contributions. In his memoir, Christie said Kushner repeatedly tried to push him off the presidential transition team.

Mulvaney has been acting chief of staff since retired Gen. John Kelly resigned late last year. His standing in the White House is seen as being on shaky ground amid his handling of the House impeachment inquiry.

The White House has denied Mulvaney has lost the president’s confidence.

UPDATE: Trump tweeted late Tuesday that he had not discussed the White House chief of staff role with Conway or Mnuchin, calling the report “wrong.”