Episode 447: Waltz Out, Rubio In: A National Security Shake Up

Today, Martha, Les, and Andrew discuss the sudden removal of National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, who has now been nominated by President Trump to serve as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. While framed as a promotion, many view the shift as a demotion in both political influence and strategic significance—especially as Waltz’s hawkish stance on Russia, China, and Iran put him at odds with a more isolationist wing of the administration.

Is this a sign the Trump administration is softening on Iran? What message does this send to allies and adversaries alike? And with Marco Rubio now wearing multiple hats as Secretary of State, acting USAID administrator, and interim National Security Advisor, is this a moment of consolidation—or further chaos?

Check out the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Fault Lines.

Check out the sources that helped inform our experts today:

https://apnews.com/live/donald-trump-news-updates-5-1-2025

https://www.bbc.com/news/live/crkx3ed5dn2t

Follow our experts on Twitter:

@marthamillerdc

@lestermunson

@AndrewBorene

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