Following a meeting with far-right media personality Laura Loomer, President Trump dismissed multiple National Security Council (NSC) officials. This action came after Loomer criticized several NSC aides, whom she accused of disloyalty, in an Oval Office meeting. The firings followed a recent security breach where sensitive information was accidentally leaked via Signal messaging app. Loomer also raised unsubstantiated allegations about the aides' alleged connections to President Biden and the Chinese Communist Party.
The firings were described as a "bloodbath" by a senior U.S. official.
Loomer's influence appears significant in this event; she had previously attacked Deputy National Security Advisor Alex Wong, alleging conflicts of interest due to his wife's past employment and his heritage. Despite these allegations, prominent Republicans like Senator Tom Cotton defended Wong and his wife.
Loomer defended her actions by claiming the media leaks are hostile and disrespectful of the Oval Office. The White House did not initially respond to requests for comment. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, who was present during Loomer's meeting, is speculated to have played a role in saving Wong from dismissal.
Loomer has a history of controversial statements and promoting conspiracy theories, yet her criticisms often gain traction despite her history of inflammatory claims. Her recent allegations concerning Hunter Biden's Secret Service detail resulted in the detail's withdrawal. She is currently involved in a defamation lawsuit against Bill Maher.