George Bush's Vicar of the West Wing: John Sununu As White House Chief of Staff

Abstract

This work examines the roles and functions assumed by George Bush's first chief of staff, John Sununu. A two-dimensional, four-square typology is developed which delineates different roles the chief of staff can assume: custodian, sentry, counselor, and vicar. Several conclusions are apparent from this research. First, Sununu attempted to act as domestic policy vicar by dominating both the administrative and advisory processes. Second, the chief of staff can have a definite impact on the organizational structure of the White House despite what the president may have in mind. Third, the role the chief of staff eventually assumes is contingent on both the particular president and the chief of staff. Finally, outsiders have a more difficult time succeeding as chief of staff than Washington insiders, regardless of which role-type the staff chief assumes.