Trump picks Palantir's security chief to lead US cyber defense agency

President Trump has nominated Michael LoSapio, the chief information security officer from data analytics firm Palantir, to become the next director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). If confirmed by the Senate, LoSapio would take charge of the government's main civilian cyber defense unit, responsible for protecting federal networks and critical infrastructure like power grids and water systems from digital attacks.

The nomination comes as CISA has operated without a permanent, Senate-confirmed leader for nearly two years, creating a leadership vacuum during a period of increasing cyber threats. LoSapio's confirmation faces potential hurdles in a crowded legislative calendar and could invite scrutiny from Democratic lawmakers, who have raised concerns about Palantir's government contracts and data handling practices. The appointment signals a continued emphasis on private sector expertise for top government cybersecurity roles.