Acting CISA director assures agency’s cybersecurity capabilities, priorities

Madhu Gottumukkala, acting director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, said the department remains capable of protecting government networks and critical infrastructure despite workforce reductions, reports Cybersecurity Dive. Speaking before the House Homeland Security Committee, Gottumukkala said the layoffs were intended to refocus the agency on its core mission. "We are prioritizing what works, eliminating duplication and ensuring that every product and service directly advances CISA's regulatory mission and aligns with the administration's goals of efficiency, accountability, and impact," he said. He added that CISA will continue targeted hiring for mission-critical roles while aligning with Department of Homeland Security cost-control measures and that the agency currently has the staff it needs. An internal report cited during the hearing showed nearly 1,000 employees have left, been laid off, or transferred since President Donald Trump took office, representing more than one-third of the workforce. Lawmakers asked about election security programs, broader cybersecurity operations, and regulatory work under the Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act, while Gottumukkala said the agency remains focused on its statutory responsibilities.