Archive · 24 Jun 2025
Trump Taps 22-Year-Old for Key Terrorism Prevention Role
A 22-year-old named Thomas Fugate, who recently graduated from college, was given a big job by Donald Trump.
He's now in charge of a group at the Department of Homeland Security that tries to stop terrorism and hate-related violence.
Before this job, he worked in a grocery store and as a landscaper.
He also worked on Trump's campaign and had an internship.
This choice has caused surprise because he doesn't have experience in government security.
This group also manages a program that gives money to communities to help them fight extremism.
Donald Trump appointed 22-year-old Thomas Fugate to lead the Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships.
Fugate has no prior government leadership or security experience; he previously worked as a landscaper and grocery clerk.
CP3, a division within the Department of Homeland Security, oversees terrorism prevention and a grant program.
Fugate graduated from the University of Texas at San Antonio with a degree in politics and law.
Before this role, Fugate served as a special assistant in an immigration office at the DHS and worked on Trump's 2024 campaign.
- Who
- Donald Trump appointed Thomas Fugate, a 22-year-old college graduate.
- What
- Donald Trump appointed Thomas Fugate to lead the Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships (CP3).
- When
- The appointment occurred recently, with Fugate taking over CP3 after the previous director quit.
- Where
- The Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships is within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
- Why
- It is implied that Trump chose Fugate due to his work ethic and success at DHS, but the decision has drawn criticism.
Critics' View
DHS View
Qualifications and Experience
Critics' View
Appointing an individual with limited experience to such a critical role raises concerns about competence and preparedness.
DHS View
A senior DHS official stated that Fugate has performed well.
- Appointee
- Thomas Fugate
- Age
- 22
- Previous Employment
- Landscaper, Grocery Clerk, Advance Team Member for Trump 2024 campaign
- Education
- University of Texas at San Antonio (Politics and Law)
- Department
- Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
- Division
- Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships (CP3)
- CP3 Responsibility
- Combat terrorism, school shootings, and hate-driven violence.