Mike Waltz, India Caucus head, is Trump's National Security Adviser
United States President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Mike Waltz as his National Security Adviser. A Republican Congressman from Florida, Waltz has been serving in the US House of Representatives since 2019. The 50-year-old retired Army colonel and former Green Beret is known for his hardline approach toward foreign policy matters, particularly those concerning China and India.
Waltz's role in US foreign policy and defense committees
Waltz is a member of several key committees in the House, including the Armed Services Committee, Foreign Affairs Committee, and Intelligence Committee. He has been a vocal critic of President Joe Biden's foreign policy, particularly criticizing the 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan. Despite praising Trump for encouraging NATO allies to increase defense spending, Waltz does not support exiting the alliance.
Waltz's stance on US-India relations and China
Waltz also doubles up as a co-chair of the India Caucus in the House, pushing for stronger US-India relations. His appointment is in line with Trump's emphasis on countering China's influence in the Indo-Pacific region. He had earlier called for a US boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing over China's treatment of Uighur Muslims and its role in the Covid-19 pandemic.
Waltz's concerns over US military readiness
Waltz, who is also a member of the Republicans's China Task Force, has previously raised concerns over US military readiness in possible Indo-Pacific conflicts. As National Security Adviser, he will brief Trump on national security issues and coordinate inter-agency efforts. Notably, this appointment does not require Senate confirmation, making his transition into the position easier.
Waltz's military background and views on Chinese manufacturing
Waltz's military experience includes several combat tours in Afghanistan, for which he has received four Bronze Stars. He supports decreasing US reliance on Chinese manufacturing and protecting American technology from alleged Chinese economic practices. His book "Hard Truths: Think and Lead Like a Green Beret" details how to avoid war with China.
