Washington, D.C. — Center for American Progress Vice President for National Security and International Policy Vikram Singh issued the following statement on the news that President Donald Trump has chosen Lt. Gen. H. R. McMaster to replace the ousted Michael Flynn as national security adviser:
The appointment of Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster to serve as national security adviser marks a positive step toward order for the chaotic Trump White House and National Security Council. Lt. Gen. McMaster is a highly regarded professional and a serious student of national security decision-making and strategy. If given the appropriate authority to organize and manage a national security decision-making process that draws on the expertise of America’s diplomats, military and intelligence officers, and other professionals across government, McMaster could bring needed stability to the organization that keeps Americans safe every day.
Following the most chaotic first month of a presidential administration in memory, the American people and America’s allies and partners are unsure if they can count on the United States during a crisis. CAP hopes hat Lt. Gen. McMaster will be given the authority and autonomy to be the only national security adviser to the president. He should have the discretion to dismiss personnel brought on by his predecessor. He must have a direct connection to the president that allows objective analysis of critical national security matters based on facts. There is, unfortunately, scant evidence to date that this will be the case.
For more information on this topic or to speak with an expert, contact Tom Caiazza at [email protected] or 202.481.7141.