By Dan Onwukwe
Presidents throughout history have relied on an inner circle of deeply trusted aides who, sometimes, work behind the scenes to shape their presidencies. These individuals often wield significant influence on policy and strategy due to their close relationship and access to the presidents. Some became more powerful than official Cabinet members.
In the United States, such notable aides include Harry Hopkins, President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s shrewd adviser who became his most trusted confidant. He was fondly called “one-man State Department” during World War II. He lived in the White House and managed crucial programmes. Marguerite “Missing” LeHand was FDR’s Personal Secretary, and arguably the most trusted figure in his inner circle.
