Stephen Goepfert (L) with President Joe Biden. (Official White House Photo by Cameron Smith)
Stephen Goepfert, special assistant and personal aide to President Joe Biden, is slated to join the Department of Transportation where he will be working on the implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, a spokesperson with the agency told the Washington Blade Aug. 23.
While serving in his current position, a role that is often referred to as the president’s “bodyman,” Goepfert has enjoyed virtually unrivaled proximity and access to Biden beginning with his 2020 presidential campaign. As a gay man and longtime member of Biden’s inner circle of trusted advisors, Goepfert is one of the administration’s most powerful LGBTQ officials.
An official with the White House provided additional confirmation to the Blade that Goepfert’s forthcoming role will involve working to implement the infrastructure law. The administration has hailed the bill as one of its most significant legislative accomplishments, a historic once-in-a-generation investment to rebuild the U.S.’s long-neglected roads, bridges and rails. The law also involves provisions to fight climate change, as well as the expansion of access to clean water and high-speed internet.
The White House disclosed Goepfert’s planned departure, scheduled for the end of this week, with a statement from Biden Aug. 24 commending Goepfert’s service as his special assistant and personal aide, where he proved himself “a trusted and loyal confidant who everyone counts on and who always delivers.”
White House Receptionist Jacob Spreyer will resume the role vacated by Goepfert.
Top White House officials including Biden’s Chief of Staff Ron Klain and his longtime confidant and counselor Steve Ricchetti echoed Biden’s praise of Goepfert’s performance.
“I have worked with and seen many body people over the years, Stephen is at the top,” Klain said. “It’s a tough and grueling job, and no one has done it with the competence, kindness, and warmth that he has.”
At the Department of Transportation, Goepfert will serve under Secretary Pete Buttigieg, the first openly gay person confirmed to a Cabinet post. Record numbers of LGBTQ political appointees have served in the Biden-Harris administration, according to the Victory Fund.
