Trump picks Palantir’s LoSapio to head CISA - CyberScoop
President Donald Trump on Monday nominated Michael LoSapio, chief information security officer at Palantir, to lead the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.
The agency has been without a Senate-confirmed director since April, when Sean Plankey withdrew his nomination.
LoSapio's selection could pause the clock on the deadline for acting director Nick Andersen, who was running out of days to hold the position under the law.
Tech industry background
The administration was looking for a nominee from a high-profile tech company, a profile LoSapio fits.
Palantir is a data analytics company known for its work with government agencies and defense contractors.
Political scrutiny
LoSapio could face obstacles in the Senate, where Democrats will take control in January.
The company has been scrutinized by Democrats over its work with the Department of Homeland Security.
Palantir has denied aiding mass surveillance of immigrants.
Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., had placed holds on previous nominees pending the release of a report on telecommunications cybersecurity.
Next steps
Republicans will still control the Senate until January, but the nomination will now face confirmation hearings.
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