Kellyanne Doesn't Rule Out Pompeo Serving Dual Role

Presidential counselor Kellyanne Conway Thursday did not rule out reports that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo could be tapped to perform a double role and take on the duties of ousted National Security Advisor John Bolton, quipping that when Pompeo is included it makes "five-plus" possible candidates. 

She also told Fox News' "America's Newsroom" that it wouldn't be "unprecedented" for Pompeo to serve in both roles. 

“That’s something that Presidents (Richard) Nixon and (Gerald) Ford did with Henry Kissinger, of course,” Conway said. "Clearly the secretary of State has the president’s ear and his trust and has been making great strides in implementing the president’s agenda around the globe, he will continue to be a very important strong voice here as America’s top diplomat."

Even if Pompeo doesn't take Bolton's spot officially, he will still be a key adviser to President Donald Trump in selecting the person who would become the president's fourth national security advisor. 

“I believe that Secretary of State Pompeo is doing an excellent job over at State and that he will, of course, have input into who the next NSC head is, as well,” Conway said. “But there are many people of diverse backgrounds, all solid candidates, I know first-hand the president is considering for that position.”

Also on Thursday, Conway indicated that "you may" hear from Trump on Thursday concerning proposals on gun safety. 

"He has had calls with Republicans and Democratic leaders...there are tens of millions of legal gun owners in the country and we're focused on public safety," said Conway, noting that the administration is also listening to mayors from places like Dayton, and Parkland, Florida, and is looking at different pieces of legislation concerning background checks. 

"The president is very focused and he is working on it every day," said Conway. 

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