Thomas Fugate has been named to a position at the Department of Homeland Security. Linkedin
Thomas Fugate, just 22 years old, is the newest political pick in President Trump’s administration. He graduated from the University of Texas at San Antonio in May 2024. Soon after, he landed a major role in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Fugate helped with Trump’s third presidential campaign and worked in government affairs for a conservative think tank. Now, he will help lead efforts to prevent terrorism.
Tough Role for a Young Official
Fugate’s job includes supporting the Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships (CP3). This center fights terrorism and targeted violence. It also manages 35 grants totaling $18 million for a terrorism prevention program.
His LinkedIn profile, which was removed as the news spread, showed he worked as a grocery store checkout clerk in 2022. It also listed some political campaign work and Model U.N. experience. But it did not show any training or experience in national security or counterterrorism.
A counterterrorism expert told reporters, “Maybe he’s a wunderkind. Maybe he’s Doogie Howser… But that’s not likely. It sounds like putting the intern in charge.”
DHS Responds to Criticism
When asked about Fugate’s role, a senior DHS official said his duties at CP3 were added temporarily to his main job in immigration and border security. The official said, “Due to his success, he has been temporarily given additional leadership responsibilities… This is a credit to his work ethic.”
Still, some experts say putting someone so inexperienced in charge is dangerous, especially as recent attacks have raised security concerns.
“We’re entering very dangerous territory,” said one expert.
Background on DHS Changes
Fugate’s hiring comes as DHS shrinks in size. The Trump administration has cut several offices, including ones for civil rights and immigration services. The agency said these offices slowed down enforcement.
In April, DHS offered buyouts and early retirement options to staff, trying to reduce its workforce.
A DHS spokeswoman said, “The American people deserve a government that works for them. Every dollar spent and position filled at DHS should focus on securing the homeland and keeping people safe.”
