The NSC during the Obama administration grew to about 250 professionals, according to Trump’s current national security adviser, Robert O’Brien. ADWhen Trump was asked on Friday whether closing the NSC global health unit slowed the U.S. response, the president called it a “nasty” question because his administration had acted quickly and saved lives. Influenza first, or something like influenza, is the one that keeps me up at night.”ADThe White House says the NSC remains involved in responding to the coronavirus pandemic. This bill would restore that and institutionalize it.”ADADConnolly said the bill is not meant to be critical of the Trump administration. “Our bill would make this position permanent.”ADFormer Obama administration officials insist that the Trump White House would have been able to act more quickly had the office still been intact.

Source: Washington Post March 14, 2020 04:30 UTC