In a significant shake-up at one of America’s key intelligence agencies, National Security Agency (NSA) Director Gen. Timothy Haugh has been dismissed from his position, according to a report by The Washington Post. His civilian deputy, Wendy Noble, has also been reassigned amid what appears to be a broad restructuring within the national security leadership.
Gen. Haugh, who also held the position of Commander of U.S. Cyber Command, was reportedly removed from both roles. Deputy Director Noble has been reassigned to a new role within the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence, the report says.
Political Fallout and Lawmaker Reactions
The dismissals quickly drew strong reactions from Capitol Hill, particularly from leading Democratic members of the House and Senate Intelligence Committees.
Rep. Jim Himes (D-CT), ranking member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, called the move “deeply disturbing,” praising Timothy Haugh‘s integrity and commitment to national security.
“I have known General Haugh to be an honest and forthright leader who followed the law and put national security first,” Himes stated. “I fear those are precisely the qualities that could lead to his firing in this administration.”
Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA), vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, expressed shock at the dismissal during what he described as a critical moment for national cyber defense.
“General Timothy Haugh has served our country with honor for over 30 years. At a time when we face unprecedented cyber threats — especially in light of the recent Salt Typhoon cyberattack from China — removing him raises serious concerns about the direction of our national security priorities,” Warner said.
Concerns Over Influence and Timing
Warner further criticized the decision, calling it politically motivated and referencing reports that President Trump may have acted based on suggestions from controversial far-right activist Laura Loomer. Loomer is said to have provided the president with a list of allegedly “disloyal” staffers at the National Security Council.
Although Trump has denied Loomer’s involvement in Thursday’s firings, an undisclosed number of NSC personnel were let go on the same day. Warner noted that no action has been taken against officials involved in recent leaks of classified information through unsecured communication channels, adding to bipartisan concerns.
“It is astonishing that Gen. Timothy Haugh is removed while those leaking sensitive data remain untouched — all while national security decisions appear to be influenced by conspiracy theorists,” Warner said.
Next Steps and Official Silence
As of now, the NSA has not issued a public statement regarding the leadership changes. When contacted, officials directed inquiries to the Office of the Secretary of Defense, which has yet to comment on the matter.
