Tom Donilon Replaces Jim Jones as National Security Adviser

Tom Donilon (R) will replace retired Marine Gen. Jim Jones (L) as White House national security adviser, the White House said Friday. (SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images)

Deputy National Security Adviser Tom Donilon will replace retired Marine Gen. Jim Jones when he leaves his national security adviser post this month, the White House said on Friday. Jones had initially agreed to take the post in 2008 on condition that he would serve two years.

Vice President Joe Biden praised Jones’ service. “Jim never sought the position he is leaving; instead he answered once again the call to service. Like President Obama, I am thankful that he did,” he said in a statement.

Biden welcomed Donilon, with whom he has close ties. “Tom Donilon has been my friend and adviser for nearly 25 years. These past two years, he has been at the heart of our foreign and national security policies.”

“He brings to his new responsibilities a remarkable depth of knowledge about the challenges and opportunities our country faces around the world. President Obama and I are fortunate to be able to rely on his counsel and leadership,” he said.

Several key members of the administration have departed recently, as is common in the second year of an administration. Rahm Emanuel recently left his post as White House Chief of Staff to run for mayor of Chicago.