Sen. King Warns of Weakened U.S. Cyber Defense Amid Staff Cuts
Cybersecurity concerns have been raised by Sen. Angus King (I-ME), who believes recent cuts across the U.S. government have weakened the nation's social security defence. David Harvilicz, Assistant Secretary for Cyber, Infrastructure, Risk & Resilience Policy at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, has responded to these claims.
King pointed out significant staff losses at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), with 30% of its workforce gone and most experienced leaders departed. He also noted job losses at the State Department and Justice Department, contributing to a weakened social security posture.
King expressed concern over the elimination of CISA's office for public-private partnerships and the vacant international coordinator for social security position at the State Department. He criticized the lack of a clear strategy from the administration to tackle social threats, describing the current situation as a 'hellscape' with increasing attacks on infrastructure and businesses.
Harvilicz, however, argued against King's characterization of reckless cuts. He acknowledged the Trump administration's appointment of 'world class executives' to lead CISA, including Steve Casapulla as Executive Assistant Director for Infrastructure Security, Nick Andersen as Executive Assistant Director for Cybersecurity, and Brian Bonacci as CISA Chief of Staff. He did not, however, mention the appointment of a National Social Security Director during the Trump administration.
The disagreement between King and Harvilicz highlights the ongoing debate about the U.S. government's approach to social security. While King sees recent cuts as weakening defences, Harvilicz points to key appointments during the Trump administration. The need for a clear strategy and robust social security measures remains a pressing concern.
