CISA Budget Cuts and US Cybersecurity Strategy Raise Concerns

This week, ISMG editors examined the implications of a proposed “grand cyber plan” from former President Trump amidst budget reductions affecting the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). They highlighted crucial insights from the recent RSAC Conference 2025 and emphasized the increasing need for AI explainability to foster trust and security.

In particular, the discussion featured the participation of Anna Delaney, director of productions; Tony Morbin, executive news editor for Europe; Michael Novinson, managing editor of ISMG Business; and Chris Riotta, managing editor for GovInfoSecurity. The panel noted several critical topics.

The session addressed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s recent suggestion of Trump’s forthcoming cyber plan, coming in tandem with a proposed $500 million budget cut to CISA. This situation raises concerns over agency morale, operational capacity, and internal dynamics as cyber threats escalate.

Furthermore, the panelists delved into the state of cybersecurity initial public offerings (IPOs). Following the announcement of new tariffs by President Trump, early 2025 optimism surrounding IPOs has dwindled, leaving late-stage startups facing challenges and investors pressing for alternatives.

Additionally, the urgency of enhancing AI explainability was underscored. The opacity in AI systems—particularly those exhibiting deceptive behaviors—poses considerable security and ethical risks. Transparency is increasingly recognized as essential for building trust and safeguarding systems.

The ISMG Editors’ Panel convenes weekly, with past installments delivering valuable insights, including highlights from Day 3 of the RSAC Conference 2025 and concluding perspectives from the event itself.