McCain, widow of the late U.S. Senator John McCain, suffered a mild stroke in October 2025 but returned to the WFP’s Rome headquarters in early January to resume her duties. She said her recovery has not reached a level that allows her to meet the “enormous demands” of the position, News.Az reports, citing Reuters.
“I had truly hoped I could finish out my term, but my health has not recovered to a level that allows me to fully serve the enormous demands of this job,” McCain said. “This is one of the most difficult decisions I have ever had to make.”
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She took office as WFP Executive Director on April 5, 2023, following her tenure as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations agencies for food and agriculture. McCain’s departure will trigger a search for new leadership at the global agency, which provides critical food aid to millions worldwide.
