The White House confirmed Ellisten has been placed on administrative leave and stated he has no direct access to the president or senior staff and does not work on the White House campus. Officials added his views do not reflect those who serve in the administration.
Maxim Lott, also recorded, described the administration as chaotic but insisted he remains committed to carrying out its agenda. Online reaction to Ellisten's comments was mixed, with some condemning him and others defending his right to speak out.