Thomas Fugate: The 22-Year-Old Appointed to Lead DHS Terrorism Prevention

In May 2025, Thomas C. Fugate, a 22-year-old graduate from the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), was appointed as the acting director of the Department of Homeland Security’s Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships (CP3). This center is the federal government’s primary unit tasked with combating violent extremism, including terrorism, school shootings, and hate-driven violence. Fugate’s appointment has raised questions due to his limited experience in national security and counterterrorism.

Background and Qualifications

Fugate graduated magna cum laude in 2024 with a degree in politics and law from UTSA. During his time at university, he participated in the Bill Archer Fellowship Program, which offers students internships in Washington, D.C. He also interned at the conservative think tank, the Heritage Foundation, and worked on Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign. Prior to his appointment at DHS, Fugate served as a special assistant in the Immigration & Border Security suboffice. His background includes working as a landscaper and grocery store clerk before entering politics.

Appointment and Reactions

Fugate succeeded William Braniff, an Army veteran and counterterrorism expert, who resigned in protest after significant staff cuts at CP3. Braniff had led the center since 2023 and was known for his extensive experience in extremism prevention. Fugate’s promotion from a junior staffer to the head of a major counterterrorism unit has drawn criticism from some experts and commentators, who question his qualifications for such a critical role.

Public Perception and Media Coverage

The appointment has attracted significant media attention. The Daily Beast published an article highlighting Fugate’s lack of experience in national security and his previous employment in low-level jobs. The piece drew parallels between Fugate’s appointment and that of Nathan Vilas Laatsch, a 22-year-old former grocery store clerk who was hired by the Defense Intelligence Agency and later arrested for allegedly attempting to pass classified information to a foreign intelligence service.

Additionally, Fugate’s appointment was satirized on “The Daily Show,” where host Michael Kosta mocked his youthful appearance and limited qualifications, suggesting that the administration was “putting the intern in charge” of serious national security matters.

Thomas Fugate’s rapid rise to a leadership position within DHS’s counterterrorism efforts has sparked debate about the balance between political loyalty and professional expertise in government appointments. While his supporters commend his dedication and work ethic, critics argue that his lack of experience in national security could hinder the effectiveness of the Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships in addressing complex issues like violent extremism.