White House cyber director’s office set for more power under Trump, experts say

Experts anticipate the Office of the National Cyber Director will assume a stronger, coordinating role over U.S. cybersecurity policy under a second Trump administration, with Sean Cairncross’s appointment signaling elevated clout relative to the NSC and CISA. The NSC’s cyber office staffing choices and National Security Adviser Michael Waltz’s posture suggest greater emphasis on offensive cyber operations, while ONCD is expected to streamline or roll back regulations and act as the interagency “quarterback” during cyber crises. Observers note that prior dynamics under the Biden administration limited ONCD’s influence, and that the new structure could improve coordination, though effective execution across agencies remains a key uncertainty.