Former Defense Secretary Robert Gates told reporters he will not be involved in the next administration, following a meeting with President-elect Trump on Friday.
While exiting Trump Tower, Gates was asked whether he anticipates serving under the incoming Republican president.
“No,” he said, shaking his head and walking away.
The former Bush appointee, who continued to lead the Pentagon during President Obama’s first term, said he and Trump “had a very wide-ranging conversation.”
“I told him I thought his selection of General Mattis to be secretary of defense was terrific, very supportive,” Gates said.
