Who is Mike Waltz? Trump’s national security adviser at the center of Yemen chat leak

Mike Waltz, a former US Army Green Beret and Florida congressman, at the moment serves as President Donald Trump’s national security adviser. Known for his hawkish stance on China and deep-rooted expertise in protection coverage, Waltz has emerged as a key determine in shaping the administration’s international coverage.
Military background
Waltz is a adorned army veteran with 27 years of service in the US Army and National Guard, retiring as a colonel, reported ABC News. As a Green Beret, he led a number of fight excursions in Afghanistan, the Middle East, and Africa. His firsthand expertise in battle zones has formed his aggressive method to national security.
Political profession
Elected to the US House of Representatives in 2018, Waltz represented Florida’s sixth District. During his time in Congress, he served on the Intelligence, Armed Services, and Foreign Affairs committees, gaining a repute as a protection and international coverage skilled. He was additionally a member of the House China Task Force, specializing in countering Beijing’s rising affect.
Trump appointed Waltz as national security adviser in November, calling him a “nationally recognized leader in national security” and an skilled on threats from China, Russia, and world terrorism.
Role in Trump’s internal circle
Waltz performed a key position throughout Trump’s 2024 presidential marketing campaign, serving as a distinguished surrogate and frequent critic of the Biden-Harris administration’s international coverage. His appointment displays Trump’s concentrate on a extra assertive national security posture.
From the Bush administration to Trump’s White House
Before coming into politics, Waltz labored in the Pentagon and White House below President George W Bush. His background in army intelligence and national security coverage made him a pure match for Trump’s staff.
Despite latest controversy over a leaked Signal group chat discussing Yemen warfare plans, Trump has stood by Waltz, describing him as a “good man” who has “learned a lesson.”