CNBC
Scaramucci says he had 'Potomac fever' in the White House — and Bessent and Lutnick have it too
Wednesday, September 2, 2026
Anthony Scaramucci told CNBC that he experienced what he called "Potomac fever" during his time in the White House, describing it as a condition where people believe they are smarter than Washington insiders but find themselves changed by the city instead. Scaramucci made the statement while discussing Treasury Secretary Russell Bessent and commerce policy advisor Marco Lutnick, suggesting both men are experiencing similar effects. Scaramucci served as White House Communications Director for approximately 11 days in 2017 before resigning.
