Defense Secretary James Mattis on Thursday dismissed the significance of Rex Tillerson’s firing as secretary of state, saying America’s counterparts around the world view it as a “Washington, D.C. story.” Mattis told reporters that “the durability of our relations with these countries, with the United States having strong institutions, goes beyond personalities.” President Trump abruptly fired Tillerson on Tuesday via a tweet. Mattis and Tillerson were believed to have a good working relationship. “The job goes on,” Mattis added.
