President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Florida Rep. Mike Waltz as his National Security Adviser, according to a source close to the Associated Press. Waltz, a retired Army National Guard officer and vocal Trump supporter, will bring his extensive military experience, policy insights, and a hawkish approach toward China to one of the most critical positions in the Trump administration. Notably, the National Security Adviser role does not require Senate confirmation.
Waltz, a Republican congressman representing east-central Florida, is a three-term veteran of the House of Representatives. He served multiple tours in Afghanistan and held advisory roles in the Pentagon, earning a reputation for his firm stance on national defense and international issues. Known for his strong opposition to China’s government policies, Waltz advocated for a U.S. boycott of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, condemning China’s role in the COVID-19 pandemic and the alleged mistreatment of Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang.
In his new role, Waltz will navigate complex national security matters, including supporting Ukraine amid the ongoing Russian invasion and addressing the growing alliance between North Korea and Russia. His influence is expected to steer U.S. foreign policy toward a more assertive stance, particularly regarding China and defense alliances in the Indo-Pacific.
A prominent figure in the U.S.-India relationship, Waltz serves as co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, the largest bipartisan coalition dedicated to strengthening ties between the U.S. and India. He has championed increased defense and security cooperation between the two democracies. “I’m honored to serve as the Co-Chair of the House India Caucus…to ensure we continue this partnership,” Waltz stated last year, emphasizing the importance of fortifying political, economic, and security bonds between the nations.
Additionally, Waltz is a member of the Republicans’ China Task Force, often voicing concerns over the U.S. military’s preparedness in the Indo-Pacific region and criticizing the Biden administration’s Afghanistan withdrawal in 2021. Initially cautious about aiding Ukraine, Waltz’s stance shifted following Russia’s 2022 invasion, as he pushed for increased military support for Kyiv, though he recently called for a reassessment of U.S. goals in the region.
Waltz’s appointment reflects Trump’s ongoing dissatisfaction with Pentagon leadership and a desire to reform military policy. Waltz has voiced strong opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in the military, promoting a merit-based culture. Last year, he introduced legislation to audit DEI programs, asserting that they detract from military readiness. He has also criticized critical race theory being taught at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, claiming it undermines core military values.
Trump’s choice of Waltz highlights a shift towards a more assertive and ideologically conservative approach to defense and international relations as he prepares for a second term. Waltz’s history of challenging military leadership, combined with his foreign policy experience, aligns with Trump’s vision of a more combative stance toward global adversaries and a more insular, merit-based military culture.
