July 16th 2023.
Kemba Walden has been serving as the Acting Director of the Office of the National Cyber Director since 2022, bringing stability and leadership to the young office. However, it is now being reported that she will not be going forward with a nomination to the position. While her withdrawal has yet to be officially confirmed, there are suspicions that her personal debts may be the reason.
In a statement from the White House, they expressed their appreciation of Walden’s “vision and service” in advancing national security, economic prosperity, and technological innovation. When asked about her decision, Walden declined to comment on the rumors of her personal debt, which could be a factor in the security clearance process. According to an anonymous lawyer familiar with the process, it is very unusual for someone to be held up due to personal debt, and they have “never heard of that one before.”
The White House’s preferred pick for the position is Henry Coker, a former top official at the National Security Agency and the CIA. However, experts in the cybersecurity field are concerned that the delay in appointing a permanent director could impede the great work done under Director Inglis and Acting Director Walden. In a letter to Jeff Zients, a coalition of industry advocacy groups and non-profit cyber organizations expressed their concern that the delay could “hinder the implementation of the National Strategy, and jeopardize the effectiveness of the ONCD.”
Overall, Kemba Walden has been a valuable asset to the Office of the National Cyber Director, and while her departure has yet to be officially confirmed, the White House has expressed their deep appreciation for her contributions. The future of the office now rests in the hands of the White House and how quickly they can nominate a permanent director.
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