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The Republican policy veteran plans to stay through the 2026 US midterms before leaving in 2027, with Dina Powell McCormick taking over external affairs
Joel Kaplan is leaving Meta . The company’s Chief Global Affairs Officer, and its most prominent Republican in Washington, has announced his departure after more than 15 years.
He isn’t leaving right away. Kaplan is expected to stay on through the November 3, 2026 US midterm elections, with his last day expected to fall in 2027.
Kaplan framed the decision in personal terms. He said he wants more time with his family and a chance to recharge.
Once he leaves, his responsibilities will shift to Dina Powell McCormick . She currently serves as Meta’s president and vice chairman, and she will now also manage external affairs.
Other executives, including Chief Legal Officer C.J. Mahoney , are expected to absorb additional policy-related duties.
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Kaplan arrived in 2011, back when the company was still called Facebook. He played a significant part in building the company’s US policy team. Over time he rose to lead global policy and government affairs.
Kaplan served as deputy chief of staff for policy under President George W. Bush. Earlier, he was a Marine Corps artillery officer.
His profile grew sharply in January 2025. That month Kaplan was promoted to Chief Global Affairs Officer, succeeding Nick Clegg as part of a broader leadership reshuffle at Meta.
The swap carried obvious symbolism. Clegg, a former UK deputy prime minister, gave way to a Republican operative just as Meta was working to strengthen ties with the Trump administration.
Under Kaplan’s guidance, Meta then reset several high-profile policies. These included changes to its approach to fact-checking and its diversity initiatives.