The following article by Drew Restuccia and Eliana Johnson was posted on the Politico website February 7, 2018:
More than 24 hours after issuing a statement defending staff secretary Rob Porter amid abuse allegations, White House chief of staff John Kelly said in a second statement that he was ‘shocked’ and condemned domestic abuse.
White House chief of staff John Kelly said late Wednesday that he was “shocked” by domestic abuse allegations against staff secretary Rob Porter — more than 24 hours after being quoted on the record defending Porter in an initial report.
“I was shocked by the new allegations released today against Rob Porter. There is no place for domestic violence in our society,” Kelly said in a statement issued after-hours by the White House.
Kelly continued, “I stand by my previous comments of the Rob Porter that I have come to know since becoming Chief of Staff, and believe every individual deserves the right to defend their reputation. I accepted his resignation earlier today, and will ensure a swift and orderly transition.” Continue reading “In new statement, Kelly says he was ‘shocked’ by Porter allegations and condemns abuse”