President Trump dismissed six National Security Council (NSC) officials after a meeting with far-right activist Laura Loomer. Loomer, during the meeting, presented a list of NSC staff members she deemed disloyal to the president.
The meeting, described as extraordinary, involved Loomer directly accusing named NSC staff members of disloyalty. National Security Advisor Michael Waltz was present but seemingly lacked the power to intervene.
Those fired included Brian Walsh (Senior Director for Intelligence), Maggie Dougherty (Senior Director for International Organizations), and Thomas Boodry (Senior Director for Legislative Affairs). The firings were perceived by some as arbitrary given the vetting process these officials had undergone.
The incident highlights Loomer's apparent influence over Trump despite her controversial views, including promoting conspiracy theories about 9/11. Loomer's online activity as a staunch Trump supporter during the 2024 campaign further contextualizes the situation.
The firings are controversial, with some government insiders questioning the seemingly arbitrary nature of the dismissals given the existing vetting processes.