July 20, 2023

Manchin Questions Nominee for CYBERCOM Commander on U.S., Allies Cyber Capabilities, Importance of Passing a Budget on Time

Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and Chairman of the SASC Cybersecurity Subcommittee, questioned Lieutenant General Timothy D. Haugh on his nomination to lead the United States Cyber Command (CYBERCOM), a position which is dual-hatted as the Director of the National Security Agency (NSA). Senator Manchin questioned Lieutenant General Haugh on the cybersecurity capabilities of U.S. allies, CYBERCOM’s force strength and the importance of passing a national budget on time.

On the cybersecurity capabilities of U.S. allies:

“We’re only as strong as our weakest link with our allied partners around the world. Do you see them investing enough and recruiting the right people? Are they able partners and making every effort to work with you and look to your leadership? Where do you think we need to double down and work harder?” Senator Manchin questioned. “Are there any of them ahead of us who we should be doing more to catch up to?”

On CYBERCOM’s force strength:

“As we talk about retention and recruitment, what is your force strength right now as far as cyber?” Senator Manchin questioned. “Can you fill the 15% void? How do you intend to do that?”

On the military and economic importance of passing a national budget on time:

“I’ve talked with so many retired and current military officials who have told me that if we got our budget done in time by September 30th, which we hardly ever do, there would be tremendous savings within the military,” Senator Manchin said in part. “I’ve been told at least 5% savings.”

A video of Senator Manchin’s questioning of the witness can be found here.