NY Cyber Chief Raises Alarms Over Trump’s Controversial Cybersecurity Cuts
In the early stages of President Trump’s administration, concerns have arisen regarding the significant reductions in cybersecurity budgets, personnel, and initiatives within the White House. These cuts have elicited criticism from various quarters, including cybersecurity experts and legislators.
One such critic is Colin Ahern, the Chief Cyber Officer for the state of New York, who voiced his concerns during a recent interview. Ahern expressed apprehension over the potential risks to the nation as a result of the administration’s cuts to cybersecurity measures.
Ahern emphasized the necessity and desire for an effective federal government in collaboration with state governments like New York. He pointed out that the administration’s actions, particularly those outlined in Trump’s ‘Big Ugly Bill,’ have raised concerns.
The Trump administration’s cybersecurity cuts have been sweeping and far-reaching. Since taking office, over a hundred employees at CISA were terminated, with some being reinstated following a court ruling. The Trump Administration’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act led to significant reductions in cybersecurity spending across federal agencies, including a $135 million cut to CISA’s budget, while allocating $1 billion over the next four years for offensive cyber operations for overseas hacking initiatives.
The nomination for national cyber director faced criticism due to a perceived lack of relevant experience, and the U.S. Department of Education suspended a cybersecurity support initiative for K-12 schools.
Ahern underscored the importance of a robust federal government capable of deterring adversaries and maintaining resilience against cyberattacks. He expressed concern that current developments in Washington could jeopardize these essential capabilities.
While the U.S. federal government plays a significant role in the nation’s cybersecurity, individual states also share a considerable mandate to secure their own networks, as well as those of state organizations such as public schools and critical infrastructure like water utilities. However, some of the funding for this comes from Washington.
In response, New York Governor Kathy Hochul wrote a letter to U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem requesting funding available under the Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP), which provides state and local agencies with funds to enhance security both physically and digitally.
Hochul stressed that HSGP funding is crucial for securing and maintaining critical infrastructure assets, such as transportation hubs, power grids, water systems, and communication networks. She urged Noem to make the funds available immediately.
Despite the challenges with the federal government, Ahern emphasized that New York is not standing still. The state is investing time, resources, and energy in fostering relationships across state lines, political parties, and local governments to maintain a safe, resilient, and affordable New York.
Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, efforts have been made to improve cybersecurity in New York. Last month, she signed new legislation requiring anyone working with a computer in a state, city, county, or district government office in New York to undergo cybersecurity awareness training. The law also mandates state government offices that are victims of cyberattacks to report incidents to the state’s homeland security office within 72 hours, and ransomware payments within 24 hours, among other provisions.
Last week, Hochul announced proposed legislation to establish a new grant program for water and wastewater organizations aimed at helping them fund necessary upgrades in compliance with upcoming regulations.
Ahern shared that the state government is establishing a new office in New York City staffed with technologists, including cybersecurity personnel. Ahern expressed hope that some of those who lost their jobs due to the Trump administration’s cuts could be recruited for these positions.
“DOGE says you’re fired. New York says you’re hired,” said Ahern, referring to the hiring effort’s slogan.
