What We Know About Florida Congressman Mike Waltz, a Possible National Security Adviser Under Trump

While there have been reports circulating that Florida Congressman Mike Waltz may be appointed as national security adviser under President-elect Donald Trump, neither Waltz nor Trump campaign officials have confirmed these claims.

Waltz, a veteran of the Green Berets and a retired Colonel in the National Guard, has dedicated 27 years to serving in the U.S. armed forces. He was elected to represent Florida's 6th District in the House of Representatives in 2018, succeeding Ron DeSantis, who is now the governor of Florida.

On election night, Rep. Waltz discussed how energy policy could impact global conflict, particularly with respect to Ukraine. He stated:

"I think underlying all of it is going to be energy policy. If we simply lift the [liquid natural gas] ban, and not do things like Biden did with canceling the Keystone XL pipeline."

"We've really got to put the foot on the gas when it comes to production of oil and gas around the world. You drive down the price around the world, which will dry up Putin's war machine, which will dry up Iran's war machine."

"Right now Vladimir Putin is selling more oil and gas through markets in India and China than he ever did before the war. That is literally what is giving him the resources to continue the war in Ukraine."

Waltz also highlighted concerns regarding Iran’s reaction to a potential Trump administration:

"Iran, too, is worried about President Trump coming back into office. They see it as an existential threat."

"They clearly do not want a return to maximum pressure. As long as they are flush with cash from oil sales, they are going to help Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis rebuild despite Israeli successes."

"You're never going to ultimately be successful in returning Middle East peace as long as Iran is selling oil like it is."

This story is still developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.