President-Elect Trump Selects Florida Representative Mike Waltz as National Security Adviser
President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Florida Representative Mike Waltz, a Republican and retired Army Green Beret, as his national security adviser, according to sources. With his extensive experience as a Trump loyalist, National Guard colonel, and a long track record of opposing Chinese influence in the Asia-Pacific region, Waltz is well-prepared to advise on critical issues and coordinate with federal agencies—a role not subject to Senate confirmation.
Waltz has been outspoken in his criticism of the Biden administration’s withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, and he frequently praises Trump’s “disruptor” approach to foreign policy, calling it necessary for reshaping U.S. national security. A seasoned Washington insider, Waltz previously served under Defense Secretaries Donald Rumsfeld and Robert Gates and has chaired the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Military Logistics. His views align closely with Trump’s, especially regarding increased defense readiness in the Indo-Pacific, as outlined in his recent book, Hard Truths: Think and Lead Like a Green Beret.
Though Waltz has praised Trump’s NATO strategy, he does not support a U.S. exit from the alliance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining allied relationships. His stance on Ukraine has recently evolved, suggesting that the U.S. should reassess its involvement in the region, considering the potential need to redirect resources to the Pacific. This shift reflects his broader view of U.S. national security priorities. Waltz has remained a loyal Trump supporter, notably attending Trump’s May 16 court hearing.
Impact on U.S. Military and Defense Strategy
Waltz’s appointment could signal significant changes within the Pentagon. He has previously criticized military leadership for failing to address cost overruns and poor performance. His “Accountability Act,” introduced in Congress, aimed to audit military diversity programs, arguing for a return to merit-based principles. This act was part of his broader efforts to ensure accountability and efficiency within the armed forces. In a congressional hearing, he voiced opposition to critical race theory being taught at the U.S. Military Academy, underscoring his stance against what he views as politicization within the armed forces.
With Waltz’s appointment, Trump’s administration is expected to adopt a more critical stance toward current military practices and policies, potentially setting the stage for substantial reforms within the Department of Defense, particularly in areas such as cost management, performance evaluation, and balancing diversity with merit-based principles.