Trump and Rubio 'Right-Sizing' National Security Council

Significant Restructuring of the National Security Council Underway

President Donald J. Trump, alongside Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who is also serving as acting national security adviser, has initiated a major overhaul of the National Security Council (NSC). This influential White House body, tasked with advising the president on critical security matters, is undergoing what Rubio describes as a 'right-sizing' to better align with its original purpose and the president's vision. The restructuring aims to streamline operations and ensure the NSC collaborates more effectively with other agencies.

The changes come following the exit of Mike Waltz from the national security adviser role earlier this month. Rubio confirmed the administration's intent in a statement, saying, 'The right-sizing of the NSC is in line with its original purpose and the president's vision. The NSC will now be better positioned to collaborate with agencies.' This marks the first on-the-record acknowledgment of the sweeping changes, which have been the subject of intense media speculation.

Details of Staff Reductions and Immediate Actions

Reports indicate that the restructuring involves significant staff cuts, with plans to reduce the NSC's size to less than 150 personnel. On the afternoon of May 24, a substantial number of NSC employees—potentially over 100—received notices that they were being placed on administrative leave or asked to leave by the end of the day. This abrupt dismissal, timed just before a long holiday weekend, underscores the administration's determination to enact swift changes.

The goal of these reductions is to eliminate bureaucratic inefficiencies and ensure that the council reflects the priorities of President Trump. By scaling back the number of staffers, many of whom are career officials, and returning them to their home agencies, the administration seeks to create a leaner, more responsive entity focused on implementing the president's agenda rather than formulating independent policy.

Strategic Vision Behind the NSC Overhaul

This restructuring is part of a broader effort by President Trump to reshape key government bodies to align with his strategic objectives. The NSC, which had reportedly grown to over 300 staff members in recent years, is being brought back to levels reminiscent of earlier administrations, potentially as low as 50-60 staffers, akin to the Eisenhower era. Rubio's dual role as Secretary of State and acting national security adviser positions him to oversee this transformation directly, ensuring that the council operates in sync with the administration's goals.

The administration views these changes as essential to maintaining operational efficiency and loyalty within critical advisory bodies. By reducing the size of the NSC and focusing on trusted aides, President Trump aims to foster a decision-making environment that prioritizes top-down directives, ensuring that national security policies are executed in line with his vision for America's safety and prosperity.