Trump Removes Biden Appointee as Acting DNI in a Bold Move to Restore America’s Intelligence Leadership
It’s official—Stacey Dixon, a Biden-era appointee, is out as acting Director of National Intelligence (DNI). In a move that signals President Trump’s determination to steer America’s intelligence agencies back on track, Dixon has been replaced by seasoned veteran Lora Shiao. The shake-up, confirmed by the Daily Caller, comes as Trump dismantles the politicized remnants of Biden’s administration and returns to a focus on national security over social engineering.
Shiao, now listed as acting DNI on the ODNI website, has over two decades of experience in the intelligence community, making her a strategic choice for the job. This appointment is a clear sign that Trump’s administration is prioritizing merit and expertise at a time when global threats are mounting.
Why Stacey Dixon Had to Go
Dixon, a Biden favorite, was known for championing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs during her time in leadership roles, including as Deputy Director of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. These initiatives, while praised by the left, were criticized by conservatives as distractions from the real mission of America’s intelligence services—keeping the nation safe.
Trump wasted no time targeting DEI programs upon returning to the White House. On his first day back, he issued an executive order to end what he called “radical and wasteful” DEI initiatives in federal agencies. Dixon’s removal reflects this renewed focus on efficiency, security, and a return to core values. Under Biden, our intelligence community was bogged down by identity politics, leaving America vulnerable to rising threats from adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran.
Simply put, DEI might score points in academic circles, but it won’t stop cyberattacks, terrorism, or espionage.
Introducing Lora Shiao: A Return to Competence
Lora Shiao brings real credibility to the role of acting DNI. With stints as Deputy Director of the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) and Chief Operating Officer for the ODNI, Shiao understands what it takes to safeguard America’s global dominance. Her expertise is exactly what’s needed to ensure that our intelligence agencies can refocus on threats abroad, rather than social experiments at home.
This leadership change couldn’t come at a better time. From Beijing’s aggressive military posturing to Moscow’s energy manipulation in Europe, the world needs a strong, focused America. For years, Biden’s intelligence policies undermined that strength. Now, Trump’s team is putting the nation back in the driver’s seat.
The Fight for Leadership Isn’t Over
While Shiao takes the helm as acting DNI, Trump’s nominee for the permanent position, Tulsi Gabbard, faces an uphill battle in the Senate. Democrats, led by Senator Mark Warner, are reportedly stonewalling her confirmation, refusing even to meet with her. Gabbard’s willingness to challenge Washington’s establishment makes her a threat to the status quo—exactly what America needs in its intelligence leadership.
Despite the opposition, Gabbard has garnered support from Republicans and even a few Democrats like Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman. Her confirmation hearing, scheduled for Thursday, will be a defining moment for the future of America’s intelligence community.
Conclusion: Restoring America’s Strength
Stacey Dixon’s removal is more than just a personnel change—it’s a statement. President Trump is taking bold steps to strip politics out of our intelligence agencies and restore their focus on protecting America. With Shiao now leading the charge and Gabbard potentially on the way, the United States is sending a message to the world: America is back, and we’re putting national security first.
The global stage is no place for identity politics. It’s time for results. Under Trump’s leadership, that’s exactly what America will deliver.
BREAKING: Trump says his government will be eliminating any and all forms of DEI and only recognize 2 genders pic.twitter.com/pxKnY5e0e2
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) January 20, 2025
