Trump Calls for Microsoft Executive’s Ouster, Citing National Security Concerns
SAN FRANCISCO – (yonhap News) – Former US President donald Trump is demanding Microsoft fire Lisa Monaco, the company’s president of global business, alleging she poses a national security threat.
Trump stated on Monday that Monaco’s position grants her access to “very sensitive information.” He further claimed, “Considering the contract between the US government and Microsoft, she is a threat to national security,” adding that the US government has recently revoked her security clearance, blocked her access to national security information, and prohibited federal contracts.
Trump did not detail the specific national security threats he believes Monaco presents. Analysts suggest the demand may stem from personal animosity, citing Monaco’s prior service as an aide during the Barack Obama governance and as Deputy Attorney General under the Joe Biden administration, were she oversaw the Justice Department’s response to the january 6th Capitol riot and challenges to the 2020 presidential election.
Monaco joined Microsoft in july, focusing on policy cooperation and government regulations.
The call for Monaco’s dismissal echoes Trump’s past conflicts with former FBI Director James Comey,whom he accused of false statements and obstruction of justice during investigations into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.
Microsoft’s response to Trump’s demand is currently awaited. The company, along with other major tech firms, has been actively seeking to improve relations with Trump since the 2024 presidential election, with CEO Satya Nadella recently attending a CEO dinner hosted by Trump at the White House.
