by More than 100 staffers from the White House National Security Council (NSC) were abruptly placed on administrative leave on Friday, May 23, 2025.
The move, driven by interim National Security Adviser Marco Rubio, marks a significant restructuring under President Donald Trump’s administration.
What Happened
The Trump administration initiated a sweeping reorganization of the National Security Council. Over 100 officials were notified by email that they were being returned to their home agencies.
The decision follows recent leadership changes and comes just before a long holiday weekend.
Key Details
- The email was sent at 4:20 p.m. Friday from NSC Chief of Staff Brian McCormack.
- Staff were given 30 minutes to pack if on-site; remote staff were instructed to coordinate returns later.
- The email subject line: “Your return to home agency.”
- Most of those affected were temporarily assigned to the NSC from other federal departments.
- Both career officials and Trump-era political appointees were impacted.
Reactions or Statements
An administration official criticized the timing and method, calling it “as unprofessional and reckless as could possibly be.” Staff began exchanging personal contact details following the announcement. No formal public statement has been issued by the White House.
Investigation or What’s Next
Sources said the Office of Presidential Personnel had been re-interviewing NSC staff in recent weeks. Interview questions included views on the appropriate size of the NSC. The administration appears to be consolidating power at the top, reducing the Council’s traditional advisory role.
Mike Waltz, who led the NSC until earlier this month, was removed after internal controversy and a data leak involving sensitive military information. He is now nominated as U.N. Ambassador. Rubio, also Secretary of State, steps in as interim NSC adviser.
FAQs
Who was affected by the NSC staff cuts?
Both career civil servants and political appointees working at the NSC were put on leave.
Why did this happen now?
The reshuffle follows recent leadership changes and a broader effort to restructure and downsize the NSC under the Trump administration.
What is the role of the National Security Council?
The NSC coordinates foreign policy and national security decisions across federal agencies.
Who is now leading the NSC?
Marco Rubio, also Secretary of State, is serving as the interim National Security Adviser.
What led to the removal of Mike Waltz?
Waltz lost influence after mistakenly adding a journalist to a sensitive group chat and ongoing dissatisfaction from White House leadership.
Summary / Final Takeaway
The Trump administration’s decision to place over 100 NSC staffers on leave marks a dramatic shift in national security strategy and leadership.
With Marco Rubio at the helm and a leaner, top-down structure in place, the future role of the NSC may be significantly altered in the coming months.
