Hayden Haynes, Chief of Staff to House Speaker Mike Johnson, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) on March 4, 2025, shortly after President Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress.
When asked if he would stand by Haynes, Speaker Johnson said, “I am,” that he is “trusted and respected” and has his “full faith and confidence.”
The incident occurred around 11:40 p.m., approximately 45 minutes after Trump’s speech concluded. Haynes was arrested after backing his car into a parked Capitol vehicle. He was subsequently released with a citation to appear in court.
DUI offenses in Washington, D.C., are prosecuted by the D.C. Office of the Attorney General, led by Brian L. Schwalb. Unlike other crimes in the district, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia does not handle these cases.
Haynes has served as Johnson’s Chief of Staff since 2017 and has been a trusted aide to the Speaker for nearly a decade.
Prior to his current role, Haynes worked for Sen. David Vitter from 2009 to 2016, according to reports.
Despite the arrest, Speaker Johnson expressed full faith and confidence in Haynes. “I have known and worked closely with Hayden for nearly a decade,” Johnson stated, emphasizing his continued support for his Chief of Staff.
The arrest took place following Trump’s joint address to Congress, which lasted approximately 100 minutes. The speech was marked by strong statements and led to reactions from both parties, including Democrats expressing disapproval through signs and walkouts.