Senator King Presses Pentagon Nominee About Cybersecurity and Staff Cuts
Senator Angus King, a well-known voice on cybersecurity and a leader on the Senate Armed Services Committee, raised serious questions about the Pentagon's ability to fight cyber threats after recent staff reductions. On July 31, 2025, during a confirmation hearing in Washington, D.C., Senator King challenged Dr. Emily Carter, who has been nominated to serve as the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, on how the Department of Defense (DoD) plans to keep America safe online with fewer cyber experts on staff.
Concerns Over Shrinking Cybersecurity Teams
Senator King pointed out that the DoD has cut 12% of its cybersecurity staff over the past year. These reductions are reportedly due to budget cuts and a push to use more automation and new technology. King made it clear that he believes these changes could put national security at risk.
During the hearing, Senator King said, “Cybersecurity is not just a technical issue—it’s a national security imperative. With the increasing sophistication of cyber threats from adversaries like Russia, China, and Iran, we cannot afford to weaken our defenses by reducing the very staff responsible for protecting our networks.”
- 12% of DoD cyber jobs cut in the last year
- Reductions come as the DoD tries to save money and use more computer automation
- Senator King worries this will make the U.S. military more vulnerable to hackers
Nominee Dr. Emily Carter Promises Action
Dr. Emily Carter, under questioning from Senator King, agreed that technology and automation are important tools, but she does not believe they can totally replace human experts. She told the committee, “While automation and advanced technologies can enhance our capabilities, they cannot fully replace the expertise and judgment of skilled cyber professionals.”
If confirmed, Dr. Carter said she would lead a full review of the Pentagon’s cyber workforce and work to make sure staffing cuts do not put national security at risk.
- Dr. Carter says she shares Senator King’s worries
- Plans to review cyber team needs if confirmed
- Promises to look for ways to keep America’s cyber defenses strong
Growing Threats and Recent Cyberattacks
Senator King highlighted that cyberattacks are getting worse and more common. He talked about a recent attack against a U.S. defense contractor, where hackers broke into computer networks and stole sensitive information. King said this shows just how dangerous and determined America’s cyber enemies are.
He told the committee, “We are seeing more sophisticated attacks every month. Our adversaries are not cutting back on their cyber investments—neither should we.”
- Recent attack on a defense contractor exposed important data
- Attacks from foreign governments like Russia, China, and Iran are increasing
- King says the U.S. must keep pace or risk falling behind
Calls for More Investment in Cybersecurity
Senator King wants the Pentagon to get more money and resources to protect the country online. He pushed Dr. Carter to support efforts to hire and keep the best cyber experts. King believes the Department of Defense should be the top choice for people who want to work in cybersecurity.
“We need to make sure the Pentagon is the employer of choice for the best and brightest in cybersecurity,” King said.
Dr. Carter agreed with this idea. She promised to work with Congress and focus on protecting the nation from hackers and other cyber threats. She said, “Cybersecurity will be a top priority in my tenure. I am committed to ensuring our defenses are strong, our personnel are supported, and our nation is protected from evolving cyber threats.”
- Senator King wants more funding for cyber programs
- He supports new programs to recruit and keep skilled workers
- Dr. Carter promises to make cybersecurity a main focus if she gets the job
Bipartisan Support for Stronger Cyber Defenses
King’s concerns were echoed by other members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, both Democrats and Republicans. Many senators agreed that the Pentagon needs to keep investing in both new technology and human talent to stay ahead of America’s cyber enemies.
- Senators from both parties agree on the need for strong cyber defenses
- They support a balance of new technology and experienced workers
What Happens Next?
The Senate Armed Services Committee will vote on Dr. Carter’s nomination later this month. If she is confirmed, Dr. Carter will be in charge of helping set the Department of Defense’s policies, including its plans for cybersecurity and defending the country from online threats.
The hearing made it clear that cybersecurity will remain a top priority for America’s leaders in 2025, as the nation faces more and more digital dangers from around the world.
- The vote on Dr. Carter’s nomination is expected soon
- Cybersecurity is now one of the biggest issues facing national defense
- Both Congress and the Pentagon are looking for ways to keep America safe online