The White House has put forward Michael Sulmeyer as the nominee for the inaugural assistant secretary of defense for cyber policy at the Department of Defense. Sulmeyer brings a wealth of experience, having served as the principal cyber advisor to the chief of staff and the secretary of the US Army since March 2022, alongside roles in various key cyber-related positions in the US Cyber Command, Office of the Secretary of Defense, and the National Security Council.
Before his tenure in government, Sulmeyer made significant contributions in academia, teaching at the University of Texas School of Law and directing the cybersecurity project at Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs. He also held a senior fellowship at Georgetown University’s Center for Security and Emerging Technology. His diverse background underscores his comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity issues, both in theory and practice.
Sulmeyer’s nomination awaits confirmation by the Senate, marking a pivotal step in enhancing the Department of Defense’s cyber policy capabilities. The creation of this new position aligns with the directives outlined in the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act, underscoring the increasing importance of cybersecurity within the US government’s strategic priorities.
As part of the broader cybersecurity strategy, the White House’s budget proposal for fiscal year 2025 includes substantial funding allocations, with $13 billion earmarked for cybersecurity across civilian departments and agencies. Additionally, a dedicated budget of $3 billion is designated for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), reflecting the government’s commitment to bolstering cyber defenses and resilience.
