JD Vance Explains Why Mike Waltz Wasn’t Fired

Vice President JD Vance pushed back on claims that Mike Waltz was fired as National Security Advisor.

Waltz, a former Florida congressman, was among Trump’s first key picks after the 2024 election. But just after Trump marked 100 days in office, Waltz’s role shifted.

Waltz Moves to UN Ambassador Role

On (May 1), Trump confirmed Waltz would leave the national security post. Instead, Trump plans to nominate him as the next U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations.

On Truth Social, Trump praised Waltz, saying:

“From his time in uniform, in Congress, and as my National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz has worked hard to put our Nation’s interests first. I know he will do the same in his new role.”

The ‘Signalgate’ Controversy

The shake-up comes after Waltz was tied to a security breach — a journalist from The Atlantic was added to a Signal chat where officials discussed classified U.S. military plans.

Waltz took full responsibility, telling Fox News:

“I built the group. It’s embarrassing. We’re going to get to the bottom of it.”

While Trump stood by Waltz publicly, ABC News sources hinted at tensions behind the scenes.

Vance Says It’s a Promotion, Not a Firing

Speaking to Fox News’ Bret Baier, JD Vance denied that Waltz was “let go” over the breach.

Vance argued,

“You could make a good argument it’s a promotion. We brought Mike on to reform the National Security Council — and he has done that.”

He added,

“Mike has the trust of both me and the president. But we believe he’ll serve better as UN Ambassador now that the NSC reforms are done.”

Rubio Steps In

Trump also announced that Secretary of State Marco Rubio will serve as interim National Security Advisor until a permanent replacement is named.

Meanwhile, Waltz shared Trump’s message on X, writing:

“I’m deeply honored to continue my service to President Trump and our great nation.”