Laura Loomer, an investigative journalist and activist, has confirmed her influence on the termination of Gen. Timothy Haugh, who held dual roles as the head of the National Security Agency and U.S. Cyber Command.
Haugh’s reported dismissal has become a point of contention, drawing strong responses from both allies and adversaries within the political sphere, given that the decision is said to have been prompted by Loomer's outreach to President Donald Trump in an Oval Office meeting, sparking debate over its implications for national security and political loyalty, as Breitbart reports.
Loomer's public confirmation came on Friday as she highlighted her role in seeking the termination of Gen. Haugh. Her reasoning is tied to Haugh’s connection to Gen. Mark Milley, the previous Joint Chiefs chairman under the Biden administration.
Trump had previously accused Milley of treason and criticized him for purportedly siding with China against Trump. Loomer expressed that it was unacceptable for Milley’s chosen personnel, like Haugh, to hold significant positions in the Trump administration, especially in high-security roles such as the NSA Director.
Loomer stressed in her messaging that the NSA’s power demands a director who is a trusted appointee of Trump, arguing against allowing former Biden administration appointees to retain such critical committees.
She also pointed to the Pentagon's decision to remove Milley’s security clearance and detail as a reason for increased scrutiny of those appointed during his tenure. Loomer has been vocal that she is committed to protecting Trump's interests and the security of the United States.
Haugh's removal marks the second termination of a four-star general connected to the Biden administration. Prior to Haugh, Charles "CQ" Brown, another appointee during Biden’s presidency, was also let go. The position of chairman of the Joint Chiefs traditionally serves a four-year term, but this recent change highlights how these roles can be revisited at the president’s discretion.
The departure of Gen. Haugh has triggered differing reactions on the political front. Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell issued a statement expressing gratitude for Haugh's extensive service, extending well wishes to him and his family. Conversely, Haugh’s firing has encountered significant criticism from Democrats, with Sen. Jack Reed of Rhode Island denouncing the decision as a move fueled by unfounded theories, which he believes undermines national safety.
In her defense, Loomer argued that backlash from Democrats and the media serves as validation for her actions. She pointed out that the firings should be anticipated given the wider security concerns around positions held by appointed officials from prior administrations that may not share Trump's perspectives. Loomer articulated this stance further by publicly stating that all holdovers from the Obama and Biden years, particularly those lacking what she deemed "moral clarity," need to be removed.
Additionally, Loomer has reportedly impacted the departure of six National Security Council staffers after consulting with Trump. Among those identified are key directors in intelligence, international organizations, and legislative affairs, marked as figures unfit for their roles under Trump’s leadership. Loomer plans to disclose more names she believes should not serve within the Trump administration, advocating for a re-evaluation of loyalties during his time in office.
Loomer has consistently used social media to voice her rationale, emphasizing that decisions were made due to the officials' perceived disloyalty or criticism of Trump. Her statements underscore the importance she places on commitment and trust within the presidential circle to mitigate potential security hazards. She views her actions as aligned with protecting Trump while ensuring that national security is not compromised.
The situation surrounding Haugh's termination continues to unfold as Loomer continues to engage in vetting processes of existing staff and appointees.
Her actions underscore a burgeoning dynamic in administration personnel management in which influences beyond the traditional channels hold substantial sway over personnel decisions, reflecting broader implications for how such matters may be approached moving forward.
