Trump national security adviser pick Waltz resigns from House, shrinking GOP majority
Rep. Mike Waltz, R-Fla., made a surprising announcement on Monday as he retired from Congress to take on the role of President-elect Trump’s national security adviser. This move, long-awaited by many, was revealed just one hour before Trump was sworn in as president.
Waltz had informed Fox News of his decision to resign on Inauguration Day, prior to Trump’s inaugural ceremony. This decision further narrows the Republican House majority to just 218-215.
In a letter announcing his resignation, Waltz stated, “As I prepare to assume my duties as National Security Advisor to the president-elect, Donald J. Trump, I hereby make my resignation official from the U.S. House of Representatives, effective January 20th, 2025.” He also mentioned his intention to serve out his term in the 118th Congress and to be sworn into the 118th Congress, as well as submitting his notice of resignation to Governor Ron DeSantis.
A special election to replace Waltz will be held in April.
The news of Waltz’s resignation comes at a time when Republicans in the House are facing challenges in unifying amidst intraparty divisions over government spending, loyalty to Trump, and ideological differences. These divisions were evident during the election of House Speaker Mike Johnson in January and the passing of a massive spending bill in December to prevent a government shutdown.
Waltz, a former Green Beret with experience serving in both the White House and Pentagon, was chosen by Trump in the fall of 2024 to serve as his national security adviser. Trump commended Waltz’s more than 25 years in the Army Special Forces, highlighting his multiple combat deployments and the four Bronze Stars he was awarded, including two with Valor.
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