Thomas Fugate, a 22-year-old with no background in counterterrorism, has been appointed to lead the Department of Homeland Security’s Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships (CP3). The office is key to stopping violent extremism and manages $18 million in grants. His appointment came after the resignation of experienced director Bill Braniff and a sharp staff cut from 80 to under 20.
Fugate, a recent college grad and former grocery store worker, rose quickly in politics. His now-deleted LinkedIn showed no security credentials, only a Model UN leadership role. Critics see his Trump loyalty—not expertise—as the reason for his promotion. One expert commented, “It sounds like putting the intern in charge.”
Trump Admin Taps 22-Year-Old Aide for DHS Terrorism Role
— NewYork-i (@Newyork__i) June 5, 2025
The Trump administration has appointed 22-year-old Thomas Fugate — one year out of college — to a key terrorism prevention post at Homeland Security.
Why it matters: Fugate, a former campaign aide and grocery clerk as… pic.twitter.com/aFd3XNgTsC
Since his appointment, CP3’s mission has shifted. Once focused on far-right extremism, it now emphasizes border threats and drug cartels. Former staff fear this political shift could leave the U.S. vulnerable.
With recent extremist attacks across the country, concerns about CP3’s readiness under Fugate are growing. One former official warned, “We’re entering very dangerous territory.” The future of the program—and trust in it—remains uncertain.
