Trump Demands Microsoft Fire Global Affairs Head Lisa Monaco Over Security Concerns
In a move seen as part of an ongoing pattern of targeting individuals with ties to previous US administrations, President Donald Trump has demanded that Microsoft fire its global affairs head Lisa Monaco, citing concerns over sensitive information access. According to Trump's post on Truth Social, Monaco's current role gives her access to "Highly Sensitive Information," which he deemed unacceptable.
Monaco, a former senior National Security aide under Barack Obama and Deputy Attorney General under Joe Biden, has been at the center of controversy since her hiring by Microsoft in May. The move drew criticism from far-right activists, including Laura Loomer, who accused the company of compromising its cybersecurity and government relationships. Trump's demand for Monaco's termination is the latest development in this ongoing saga.
According to TechCrunch, Trump rescinded Monaco's security clearance earlier this year, citing concerns over her past roles in the Obama and Biden administrations. In his post on Truth Social, Trump wrote: "It is my opinion that Microsoft should immediately terminate the employment of Lisa Monaco." This move has sparked debate among experts and observers, with some arguing that Trump's demand is a clear attempt to exert influence over private companies.
Monaco's hiring by Microsoft was seen as a strategic move to bolster the company's government relationships and cybersecurity expertise. However, her past roles have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and access to sensitive information. According to a source familiar with the matter, Monaco has been working closely with Microsoft's leadership team to address these concerns.
The controversy surrounding Monaco's hiring and Trump's demand for her termination has sparked debate among experts and observers. "This is just another example of Trump trying to exert influence over private companies," said one expert, who wished to remain anonymous. "It's a clear attempt to undermine the independence of these organizations and create a culture of fear."
As of now, Microsoft has not commented on Trump's demand for Monaco's termination. The company has maintained that it takes all necessary steps to ensure the security and integrity of its operations. According to a spokesperson for Microsoft, "We take all concerns seriously and are committed to maintaining the highest standards of cybersecurity and government relationships."
The situation remains uncertain, with many wondering what will happen next. Will Microsoft comply with Trump's demand, or will Monaco remain in her role? Only time will tell.
Background
Lisa Monaco was hired by Microsoft in May as part of a broader effort to bolster the company's government relationships and cybersecurity expertise. Her past roles in the Obama and Biden administrations have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and access to sensitive information. Trump rescinded her security clearance earlier this year, citing these concerns.
Expert Opinions
"This is just another example of Trump trying to exert influence over private companies," said one expert, who wished to remain anonymous. "It's a clear attempt to undermine the independence of these organizations and create a culture of fear."
"We take all concerns seriously and are committed to maintaining the highest standards of cybersecurity and government relationships," said a spokesperson for Microsoft.
Next Steps
The situation remains uncertain, with many wondering what will happen next. Will Microsoft comply with Trump's demand, or will Monaco remain in her role? Only time will tell.
This story was compiled from reports by TechCrunch and TechCrunch.
