U.S. Vice President JD Vance sharply criticized the media for misrepresenting Mike Waltz’s reassignment. President Donald Trump recently moved Waltz from his position as National Security Adviser to a new role as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations.
During an interview with Fox News host Bret Baier, Vance directly challenged the narrative that Trump had fired Waltz. He stated, “The media wants to frame this as a firing. Donald Trump has fired a lot of people. He doesn’t give them Senate-confirmed appointments afterwards,” according to the Associated Press.
Vance Dismisses Signal-Gate as the Cause
Vance also rejected any link between Waltz’s new role and the Signal-gate controversy. The scandal began when Waltz reportedly added The Atlantic editor to a private Signal group where top officials discussed U.S. military plans to strike Houthi rebels in Yemen. When asked if this incident led to Waltz’s reassignment, Vance firmly responded, “No, it’s not.”
He went on to defend the appointment, saying, “I think you could make a good argument it's a promotion,” and praised Waltz for successfully completing his responsibilities as NSA.
Waltz Faces Criticism Over Signal Leak
The Signal-gate incident drew sharp criticism after it revealed detailed information about military strategies in Yemen. This disclosure embarrassed the Trump administration, which has already made several non-traditional appointments during its tenure.
Waltz publicly took responsibility for the leak. Although the White House called the incident a “mistake,” officials claimed it did not endanger any Americans. At the same time, the Pentagon inspector general began investigating the use of the Signal messaging app. Meanwhile, lawmakers from both Republican and Democratic parties condemned Waltz’s actions.
Trump Announces New Moves in National Security Team
In a significant reshuffle, Trump announced that Waltz would now serve as U.N. Ambassador. To temporarily handle Waltz’s duties, Trump assigned Secretary of State Marco Rubio to take over national security responsibilities. Trump also declared his broader mission, stating he would “fight tirelessly to Make America, and the World, SAFE AGAIN.”
On social media, Trump praised Waltz’s career and service, writing, “I am pleased to announce that I will be nominating Mike Waltz to be the next United States Ambassador to the United Nations. From his time in uniform on the battlefield, in Congress and, as my National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz has worked hard to put our Nation’s Interests first.”
Rubio Juggles Two Roles Amid Global Uncertainty
Now, Marco Rubio must manage two major responsibilities during a challenging time for U.S. foreign policy. The administration continues to struggle with stalled peace negotiations in Ukraine, delicate discussions with Iran over nuclear activity, and growing global economic concerns triggered by Trump’s ongoing trade disputes with major partners.