Obama’s Jewish personal chef and longest-serving aide, Sam Kass has resigned from his job at the first family’s residence and is moving to New York, the White House announced on Monday.
“His departure concludes a tenure of dedicated service not only to the First Family, but also to the Obama Administration as a key player in the development of nutrition policy,” said the White House in a statement.
Kass, who grew up in a Jewish family, recently married Alex Wagner, host of MSNBC’s daytime program “Now with Alex Wagner,” attended by the president and his family.
Kass was never the top White House chef, a job held by Executive Chef Cristeta Comerford, but his ties to the first family dating back to their residence in Chicago gave him more influence than any past chef. He began preparing meals for the Obamas when the family lived in Chicago and the Obamas persuaded him to join them at the White House. He is now among the Obamas’ longest-serving aides. He also used to prepare the traditional Passover Seder at the White House.
Besides preparing the family’s meals most weeknights, Kass also serves as senior nutrition policy adviser and executive director of the first lady’s anti-childhood obesity initiative.
“From constructing our Kitchen Garden to brewing our own Honey Brown Ale, Sam has left an indelible mark on the White House,” President Obama said in a statement. “And with the work he has done to inspire families and children across this country to lead healthier lives, Sam has made a real difference for our next generation. Over the years, Sam has grown from a close friend to a critical member of my team, and I am grateful for his outstanding work and look forward to seeing all that he will continue to achieve in the years ahead.”
Kass’s successor will be named in the new year.
