Providing an Order of Succession Within the Office of the National Cyber Director
Jan 13, 2025
Jan 13, 2025
Summary
Creates a clear list of officials who will take over if the National Cyber Director can no longer perform their duties.
What problem does this solve?
Without a clear plan, there could be confusion about who is in charge of national cybersecurity if the Director's position becomes empty. This order establishes a specific line of succession to ensure leadership continues without interruption.
What does this order do?
Establishes the line of succession
Lists six officials, in order, who will act as the National Cyber Director if the position is vacant, starting with the Deputy National Cyber Director.
Specifies who is not eligible
States that an individual already serving in an acting capacity in one of the listed roles cannot become the acting Director through this order.
President retains final say
Clarifies that the President can still choose someone else to be the acting Director, as long as it is permitted by law.
Does not change other agency powers
Makes clear that this order does not affect the legal authority of other executive departments or the budget-related functions of the Office of Management and Budget.
Who does this affect?
- Officials of the Office of the National Cyber Director
What is the real world impact?
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Ensures continuity of government operations
Prevents a leadership gap in a critical national security position by clearly defining who takes charge if the National Cyber Director is unable to serve. This ensures that the office can continue its important work without delay or confusion.
When does this start?
This order takes effect on January 3, 2025, the date it was signed.