Senator Mark Warner, a Virginia Democrat, criticized President Trump’s decision to remove security details for several former officials, calling the move “all about retribution” and claiming it puts people’s lives at risk. In an appearance on Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan on February 2, 2025, Warner emphasized that the decision was politically motivated and urged concern for the safety of those affected. He pointed out the gravity of the situation, stating, “he’s putting people’s lives in danger, which is just unbelievable.”
The individuals affected by the removal of federal security details include former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley, former National Security Advisor John Bolton, former Special Envoy to Iran Brian Hook, and Dr. Anthony Fauci, former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
Senator Marco Rubio, a Republican, responded to the controversy, saying on Megyn Kelly’s podcast that Trump has the authority to make such decisions. Rubio acknowledged that a process is in place for assessing security needs based on threats and costs.
Under the Biden administration, diplomatic security for former officials, including Pompeo and Milley, was repeatedly renewed due to continuing threats, especially from Iran. CBS News had previously reported on these ongoing dangers, with the Iranian regime posing a threat to those who served during Trump’s first term.
Warner, who serves as the Vice Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, was asked about the status of these threats. He confirmed that there has been no indication that the risk from Iran has lessened, stressing that both he and his Republican counterpart on the committee, Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas, have not seen any evidence suggesting a reduction in the threat against former U.S. officials. Warner urged more action from others in the political sphere to speak out against such decisions.