White House fires National Security Agency chief

The Trump administration has removed General Timothy Haugh, the head of both the National Security Agency (NSA) and U.S. Cyber Command, in what appears to be a broader purge of top security officials, CBS News reports.

Trump’s Decision Sparks National Security Concerns

The removal of Gen. Haugh has drawn strong criticism from Democratic leaders, who claim it could jeopardize national security. The firing follows a meeting between President Donald Trump and far-right activist Laura Loomer, who reportedly advised the president to dismiss officials she deemed not loyal to his agenda.

Loomer later posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating that both Gen. Haugh and his deputy, Wendy Noble, were dismissed due to alleged disloyalty to Trump. The White House has not provided an official reason for their removal.

Additional White House Firings Raise Questions

The shake-up extends beyond the NSA, with at least three senior officials at the National Security Council (NSC) also reportedly dismissed. These include:

• Brian Walsh – Director for Intelligence

• Thomas Boodry – Senior Director for Legislative Affairs

• David Feith – Senior Director for Technology and National Security

Sources indicate that a recent security breach, in which a journalist was mistakenly added to a Signal messaging thread discussing U.S. military strikes in Yemen, may have influenced the firings. However, the Trump administration has not confirmed a direct link between the incident and the dismissals.

Trump Defends Firings, Loomer’s Influence Grows

Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump acknowledged his meeting with Laura Loomer, calling her a “great patriot” and confirming that he listens to her recommendations. When asked about staff changes, Trump stated, “We’re always going to let go of people who are not loyal.”

Meanwhile, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth is now under internal review for his role in the Signal chat breach, according to the Pentagon’s Office of the Acting Inspector General.

Growing Political Backlash

Key Democratic lawmakers have expressed deep concern over the firings. Rep. Jim Himes (D-CT) warned that removing officials based on personal loyalty rather than national security interests could have severe consequences.

With the 2024 election season in full swing, critics argue that Trump’s security shake-up is aimed at consolidating power and surrounding himself with unwavering allies.