US Democratic lawmakers have protested against the reported dismissal of Gen Tim Haugh as director of the National Security Agency (NSA), with one legislator arguing that the move “makes us all less secure.”
The Washington Post reported late Thursday that Haugh and his civilian deputy at the NSA, Wendy Noble, were dismissed from their positions. Haugh also served as the head of US Cyber Command, which oversees the Pentagon’s cybersecurity operations. The report cited unnamed current and former US officials.
Senator Mark Warner, vice-chair of the Senate intelligence committee, issued a statement expressing his concern: “General Haugh has served our country for over 30 years with honor and distinction. Given the serious cyber threats we are currently facing, terminating his appointment raises questions about how this action will improve national security.”
Representative Jim Himes, the ranking member on the House intelligence committee, expressed his distress over the decision, characterizing Haugh as an honest and dedicated leader who prioritized national security. Himes called for a clear justification for the termination, questioning its implications for national safety.
Earlier in the day, President Donald Trump announced the removal of certain White House National Security Council officials, a development following a meeting with far-right activist Laura Loomer, who allegedly pressed Trump about staff loyalty to his “Make America Great Again” agenda.
Trump mentioned that firings are a routine occurrence involving individuals he deems unsuitable or disloyal to his administration’s goals.
The firings coincide with controversy surrounding national security adviser Mike Waltz, who is under pressure over the use of a commercial messaging app to discuss a military operation.
Warner criticized Trump for removing the nonpartisan NSA head while not addressing the leaks of classified information via such apps, and suggested that the “staffing direction on national security” is being influenced by a “discredited conspiracy theorist” in the Oval Office.
Haugh’s recent meeting with Elon Musk, whose organizations have been reducing staff and budgets across various government agencies, also raised questions about the future direction of the NSA and Cyber Command under the new administration.
As director, Haugh has played a critical role in leading both the NSA and Cyber Command since 2023, organizations pivotal to the country’s cybersecurity and defense strategies against cyber threats.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/apr/04/democrats-decry-reported-dismissal-of-nsa-director-tim-haugh
