Trump Lets the Ax Swing in Oval Office Drama as Laura Loomer Hijacks National Security
Washington, D.C.
In a political thriller straight out of a House of Cards reboot, Donald Trump just reminded America who’s really in charge—and who definitely isn’t.
Six National Security Council staffers were abruptly fired following a dramatic Oval Office showdown in which far-right firebrand Laura Loomer—yes, that Loomer—sat across from the former and perhaps future president, armed with a folder full of opposition research and vengeance.
The meeting, described by insiders as chaotic and unprecedented, saw Loomer outmuscle National Security Adviser Mike Waltz right in front of his own staff. While Waltz watched, Trump leaned into Loomer’s allegations of disloyalty, including ties to “anti-Trump” figures like McConnell and McCain and even alleged (and unproven) sympathies with the Chinese Communist Party.
Waltz’s own team didn’t stand a chance. Among the ousted: Brian Walsh, once a Rubio guy; Thomas Boodry, Waltz’s former Capitol Hill right-hand; and Maggie Dougherty, who led international organization efforts. Their “crime”? In some cases, just having the wrong friends—or the wrong opinions on social media.
This was no ordinary Oval Office meeting. Loomer had no hard press credentials. No official role. Yet, there she was, pitching a loyalty purge to a president known for trusting gut feelings over résumés. Her growing influence eclipsed that of actual administration figures, leaving staffers stunned and Waltz politically wounded.
If it feels like déjà vu, it’s because it is. Trump has always thrived in chaos—and this latest episode might be the most reality-TV-worthy chapter yet. Critics say it’s paranoia dressed as policy. Supporters? They call it draining the swamp 2.0.
What’s clear is that Trump’s inner circle is shrinking and hardening—and the ghosts of neocons past are being exorcised in real time.
As Trump eyes another term, the message couldn’t be louder: loyalty over legacy, and no one—no matter how senior—is safe from the wrath of the base, especially when it has a voice like Loomer’s whispering into the Oval Office ear.
