A surprise White House reshuffle has caused new controversy. At least three national security officials were fired just one day after far-right activist Laura Loomer met with former President Donald Trump. The timing was suspicious and drew intense media attention.
Unexpected Firings Rock the NSC
Trump formally announced yesterday the firing of several employees working at the National Security Council (NSC). They are Brian Walsh, Thomas Boodry, and David Feith—all senior intelligence, legislative affairs, and national security technology officials. All were old policy hands.
Why? Trump said it in a nutshell, “We’re going to release people that we don’t believe can do the job, or have loyalties to something else.” The move was presented as a call to loyalty, rather than a payback.
Laura Loomer’s Meeting Sparks Questions
Just 24 hours earlier, Trump met Laura Loomer in the Oval Office. Loomer, a known far-right figure, reportedly presented a list of 12 staffers she deemed disloyal. According to CNN, she suggested Trump fire several of them—specifically from the NSC.
Although Trump publicly dismissed her influence, the timing coincidence is hard to overlook. The story gained momentum under the title: Trump fires national security officials after meeting with Laura Loomer.
Who are the officials who were fired?
All the fired officials were senior:
- Brian Walsh: Former Rubio aide, director of intelligence.
- Thomas Boodry: Legislative director who had worked on Capitol Hill previously.
- David Feith: Ex-State Department staffer and head of tech security.
These were individuals with profound institutional knowledge. Their unexpected departure suggests a potential shift in how Trump would like the NSC to operate.
Signal Chat Leak Adds Fuel
The firings followed on the heels of another dramatic episode. A Signal private group chat among NSC staff accidentally included a reporter. The group chat disclosed classified military information on a U.S. attack against the Houthis in Yemen.
National Security Adviser Mike Waltz took responsibility, stating it was an honest mistake. Trump publicly defended him, even as more and more people called for somebody to be held responsible. White House insiders, however, expect Waltz to be let go soon.
Deputy Adviser Alex Wong, though not let go, is likewise rumored to be departing.
Trump’s Defense of Loomer Raises Suspicions
Despite the backlash, Trump praised Loomer. He called her “a strong person” and said she made job recommendations and personnel recommendations. However, he insisted that Trump fires national security staff after meeting Laura Loomer is not cause-effect.
“She advises, like many do,” Trump explained. “But I make the final decision.”
However, critics want to know why someone with a history like Loomer’s has so much access. Her past statements—in such as declaring 9/11 an inside job—make the public anxious.
Loomer Pushes Back on Speculation
Loomer would not explain her meeting with Trump. “For respect for the President, I will not discuss personal Oval Office affairs,” she told CNN. She did continue, though, to reiterate her participation in campaigning for “strong vetting” of government officials.
She continued by saying, “I will continue advocating his agenda and championing national security.”
A Pattern of Devotion To Expertise Rather?
The firings have raised again questions about Trump’s leadership style. It is not the first time loyalty has been placed ahead of qualifications. To Trump, loyalty trumps experience.
What Happens Next?
Trump denies direct involvement by Loomer but the saga continues. There can be further sackings. The White House keeps mum on making any additional changes but goes on with the mission of “team alignment” in support of Trump’s agenda.
Whether it was a one-time shake-up or the start of a bigger purge only time will tell. One thing is definite though: Trump firing national security advisors after sitting down with Laura Loomer is more than a one-off article–it was the moment things began to change the way that Trump’s staff operates.
