Deputy National Security Advisor facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Deputy National Security Advisor
Incumbent Andy Baker and Robert Gabriel Jr. since May 23, 2025
Executive Office of the President
Member of	National Security Council Homeland Security Council
Reports to	President of the United States United States National Security Advisor
Appointer	President of the United States
Constituting instrument	National Security Presidential Memorandum
Formation	1961
First holder	Walt Rostow

The United States Deputy National Security Advisor is an important job in the Executive Office of the President of the United States. This person works closely with the United States National Security Council, which helps the President make big decisions about the country's safety.

The Deputy National Security Advisor works under the President's main National Security Advisor. Their role can change depending on who is President and how they like to organize their team. Often, there are a few deputies, each focusing on different areas of national security.

As of May 2025, Andy Baker and Robert Gabriel Jr. are serving as deputy national security advisors.

What Does a Deputy National Security Advisor Do?

The Deputy National Security Advisor helps the President and the National Security Advisor with many important tasks. They often lead meetings for the National Security Council, where top government officials discuss serious issues.

Helping the President with Big Decisions

One key part of the job is to help the President understand complex global events. They gather information and advice from different experts. This helps the President make smart choices to keep the country safe.

Working with Other Leaders

The Deputy National Security Advisor also works with leaders from other countries. They help build strong relationships and solve problems together. This is important for keeping peace and security around the world.

Who Has Held This Important Role?

Many different people have served as the Deputy National Security Advisor since the job was created in 1961. These individuals have come from various backgrounds, including military, diplomacy, and government.

Early Deputy Advisors

The first person to hold this position was Walt Rostow in 1961. Other early advisors included Carl Kaysen and Robert Komer. These individuals helped shape the role during its early years.

Notable Figures in the Role

Over the years, several well-known figures have served as Deputy National Security Advisor. For example, Colin Powell held the role from 1986 to 1987. Later, he became a famous general and Secretary of State. Robert Gates also served in this position before becoming Secretary of Defense.

Recent Deputy Advisors

In more recent times, people like Tony Blinken (2013–2015) and Avril Haines (2015–2017) served as deputies during the Obama Administration. During the Trump Administration, K. T. McFarland and Matthew Pottinger were among those who held the position. Most recently, Jonathan Finer served during the Biden Administration.

Different Kinds of Deputy Advisors

Sometimes, the President needs special help with certain issues. Because of this, other deputy-level positions have been created. These deputies focus on specific areas like fighting terrorism or international money matters.

Focusing on Homeland Security

After the September 11 attacks, new deputy roles were created. For example, during the Bush administration, Wayne A. Downing focused on fighting terrorism. Later, John O. Brennan and Lisa Monaco worked on homeland security during the Obama Administration. Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall also focused on homeland security and counterterrorism during the Biden Administration.

Dealing with World Money Matters

Some deputies focus on international economic affairs. This means they help with how the U.S. deals with other countries on money and trade. David McCormick and Caroline Atkinson are examples of people who held these roles.

Communicating Important Messages

Other deputies specialize in strategic communications. Their job is to make sure the President's messages about national security are clear and understood. Ben Rhodes was a well-known deputy in this area.

Images for kids

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  Walt Rostow

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  Carl Kaysen

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  Robert Komer

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  Francis M. Bator

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  Richard V. Allen

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  Alexander Haig

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  Brent Scowcroft

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  William G. Hyland

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  David L. Aaron

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  James W. Nance

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  Robert McFarlane

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  John Poindexter

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  Donald Fortier

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  Peter Rodman

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  Colin Powell

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  John Negroponte

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  Robert Gates

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  Jonathan Howe

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  Sandy Berger

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  James Steinberg

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  Stephen Hadley

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  Jack Dyer Crouch II

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  James Jeffrey

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  Thomas E. Donilon

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  Denis McDonough

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  Tony Blinken

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  Avril Haines

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  K. T. McFarland

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  Ricky L. Waddell

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  Mira Ricardel

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  Charles Kupperman

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  Matthew Pottinger

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  Jonathan Finer

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  Alex N. Wong