In a rapid reshaping of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), President Donald Trump has fired the heads of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Coast Guard, while also dissolving all membership in a key aviation security advisory committee. This move has drawn mixed reactions as the administration promises to refocus its efforts on national security priorities.

On Tuesday, members of the Aviation Security Advisory Committee received notification of the removals, stating that the DHS is committed to eliminating “the misuse of resources” and ensuring that its activities prioritize national security. Although the committee will still officially exist, it has no members to perform its essential role of analyzing safety issues at airports and airlines. This group, established by Congress following the 1988 PanAm 103 bombing, previously included representatives from airlines, unions, and victims' advocacy groups, with many of its recommendations implemented over time.

Notably, TSA Administrator David Pekoske, who was appointed by Trump during his first term and re-confirmed by Biden, was dismissed despite being in the midst of a second five-year term. Dismissing Pekoske without explanation has fueled concern about the administration's approach to aviation security. “I naively thought they wouldn’t put security at risk... but I’m not so sure,” remarked Stephanie Bernstein, a committee member whose husband died in the bombing.

Furthermore, Adm. Linda Fagan, the first female Commandant of the Coast Guard, was also relieved from her position. Lawmakers expressed shock, particularly highlighting her efforts to address a longstanding culture of sexual assault within the Coast Guard. Senator Maria Cantwell labeled Fagan's removal as “appalling,” especially given the progress made during her tenure.

Under Fagan’s command, the Coast Guard had seen significant improvements, such as surpassing recruitment goals and seizing over $2.5 billion in illegal drugs in 2024. Representative Joe Courtney criticized Trump’s decision to remove her as an “abuse of power,” emphasizing that her record would speak volumes against the administration's narrative.

The memo delineating these terminations did not clarify whether additional advisory committees were also targeted for elimination. It remains ambiguous how other agencies may echo this newfound directive. Previously, other boards addressing safety in transportation sectors were also held in high regard.

Following these announcements, Trump is expected to appoint new leaders in the DHS, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), further demonstrating an overhaul of the administration's approach to security and crisis management.

For a more detailed overview of Trump’s recent actions affecting aviation safety and security leadership, visit AP News and HuffPost.