Chip SaltsmanChip Saltsman’s imminent departure as U.S. Rep. Chuck Fleischmann’s top aide transforms the Chattanooga congressman’s inner circle, leaving the Republican lawmaker without his bluntest political weapon.
Fleischmann’s office announced Friday that Saltsman would leave his job as chief of staff Jan. 1 after a successful, high-profile and sometimes controversial three years as a confidant, campaign consultant and office supervisor.
“Chip has been an incredible asset for the last two years,” Fleischmann said in a news release. “His knowledge of politics and public policy is second to none. I thank him for his tireless service and look forward to his advice and counsel in the future.”
Fleischmann legislative director Jim Hippe, a former Bill Frist staffer, will replace Saltsman. The news release gave no reason for the change but said it was part of a long-term plan.
The 2008 presidential campaign manager for FOX News host and former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, Saltsman was considered by those close to Fleischmann to favor politics over government. As a campaign consultant, he brass-knuckled health care consultant Robin Smith in 2010 and retired dairy executive Scottie Mayfield this year. Both were considered Fleischmann’s top rivals in consecutive Republican primaries.