Lawmakers probe CISA leader over staffing decisions

Lawmakers on the House Homeland Security Committee pressed acting CISA head Madhu Gottumukkala about personnel decisions, staffing levels, and proposed budget cuts, including scrutiny over an attempted removal of the CIO, disputed workforce reassignments, and an alleged failed polygraph. Gottumukkala defended current staffing and denied certain reports while Democrats voiced concern about reduced headcount and mission readiness; no concrete cyber incidents or technical threats were discussed.