‘The Residence’: What Does the White House Chief Usher Actually Do?

A member of the White House staff is killed in “The Residence,” and despite the story itself being a work of insane fiction, at least one part of it is real: the man’s job.

Now streaming on Netflix, the series centers on Cordelia Cupp (Uzo Aduba), a crack detective called in to solve the death of A.B. Wynter (Giancarlo Esposito), the Chief Usher at the White House, who’s mysteriously killed during an event. With 132 rooms and 157 suspects, it’s…a difficult case, to say the least.

But in case you were wondering if Wynter’s job is actually a thing, the answer is yes.

What does the White House Chief Usher do?

According to the White House Historical Association, “the White House Usher’s Office is one of the most singular working spaces in the world,” and not an easy one to gain employment at. Apparently, training for the job can only be gained while on the job.

But what is it exactly that this member of the staff does? Well, per the Association, the official job description of the Chief Usher is to serve as the “general manager of the Executive Mansion, and [he] is delegated full responsibility for directing the administrative, fiscal, and personnel functions involved in the management and operation of the Executive Mansion and grounds, including construction, maintenance, and remodeling.” 

Unofficially, and in much more blunt terms, “it is the usher’s job to coordinate with the first family and to fulfill their wishes.” So, essentially, this person does what they are asked.

The Chief Usher oversees both the professional and domestic life of the president, with the Usher’s Office staff working with the presidents’ families. Ushers are the first to welcome new presidents to the White House on inauguration day and the last to say goodbye on their exit.

“The Residence” is now streaming on Netflix.