Trump Administration Removes Admiral Linda Fagan As Coast Guard Chief

The first woman to lead a US military service, Admiral Linda Fagan, has been removed as the head of the Coast Guard by President Donald Trump’s administration.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees the Coast Guard, has yet to comment on Fagan’s dismissal, but reports from Fox News cite senior officials pointing to her handling of border security threats, an “excessive focus” on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, and an “erosion of trust” related to the Coast Guard’s investigation into sexual assault cases.

President Trump, who declared a national emergency at the US-Mexico border on Monday, has made border security a cornerstone of his administration’s priorities.

Critics of Fagan’s leadership argue that the Coast Guard under her command did not align with this agenda.

“Border security is a key priority for the president,” a senior official stated, adding that Fagan’s dismissal reflects the administration’s broader push for a more security-focused approach within federal agencies.

Despite the criticisms, acting DHS Secretary Benjamine Huffman acknowledged Fagan’s distinguished career in a message to the Coast Guard.

“She served a long and illustrious career, and I thank her for her service to our nation,” Huffman said.

Fagan, who had led the Coast Guard since 2022, previously served as the vice commandant and held various posts across all seven continents.

Her biography, which highlighted her extensive experience, has since been removed from the Coast Guard’s official website.

Fagan’s tenure as the first female leader of a US military branch marked a historic milestone. She served in diverse locations, from Antarctica’s Ross Island to Africa and Asia, earning accolades for her trailblazing contributions to the military.

However, her focus on DEI programs and the Coast Guard’s handling of sexual assault investigations appear to have drawn ire from the Trump administration, which has been critical of government efforts to foster diversity and inclusion.