Why it matters:
The National Security Council (NSC) has long served as the White House’s nerve center for shaping U.S. foreign policy and coordinating responses to global threats. Dismantling large parts of its structure not only alters the U.S. national security apparatus but may reduce the influence of expert voices in critical policymaking.
What he's saying:
While Trump has not publicly commented on the layoffs, sources say the administration's goal is to transform the NSC into a lean unit that implements, rather than shapes, presidential directives—shifting key responsibilities to the State and Defense Departments.
What they're saying:
Critics, including Democrats and some Republicans, warn that the move risks undermining informed decision-making by stripping away expert analysis and internal debate. Supporters, particularly among conservatives, argue that the NSC had become bloated and redundant.
Key points:
- President Trump fired dozens of NSC staffers and aims to reduce the body’s size to around 50 people, drastically cutting its workforce from over 300 under President Biden.
- The firings have caused chaos and low morale among staff, with some positions left unfilled and dismissals reportedly influenced by political loyalty rather than performance.
Go deeper:
The NSC has struggled to attract and retain talent in recent months, leaving several key posts unfilled. Morale reportedly took a hit earlier this year after former adviser Mike Waltz mistakenly disclosed classified information to the press. Additionally, controversial activist Laura Loomer had presented Trump with a list of officials she claimed were disloyal, prompting earlier dismissals. The restructuring reflects a broader trend in the Trump administration toward centralizing power and minimizing institutional friction—potentially at the expense of institutional memory and nuanced policy development.
ahmad shirzadian
