DHS Denies Polygraph Failure by Acting CISA Director Amid Internal Investigation
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has firmly disputed recent reports alleging that Madhu Gottumukkala, the acting director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), failed a polygraph test required for access to highly classified intelligence programs. The controversy has intensified as an internal investigation unfolds, resulting in the suspension of several career cybersecurity officials.
According to a Politico report, Gottumukkala sought access to a sensitive intelligence program that mandates a counterintelligence polygraph. The report, based on interviews with anonymous current and former cybersecurity officials, claimed that at least six career staffers were placed on administrative leave for allegedly misleading leadership about the polygraph requirement. However, DHS strongly rejected these assertions.
In a statement provided to Fox News Digital, DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin clarified that the polygraph in question was not an authorized test. “Acting Director Madhu Gottumukkala did not fail a sanctioned polygraph test. An unsanctioned polygraph test was coordinated by staff, misleading incoming CISA leadership,” she said. McLaughlin added that the employees placed on administrative leave are pending the conclusion of a thorough investigation, emphasizing that DHS maintains rigorous standards and accountability for its personnel.
“Acting Director Gottumukkala has the complete and full support of the Secretary and is laser focused on returning the agency to its statutory mission,” McLaughlin affirmed. The statement underscores the department’s commitment to safeguarding national cybersecurity and infrastructure.
CISA, a key agency within DHS, plays a critical role in protecting the nation’s cyber infrastructure and coordinating responses to cyber threats. The agency’s leadership and integrity are vital to maintaining public trust and operational effectiveness. The controversy surrounding the polygraph test and subsequent personnel actions has raised questions about internal processes and the handling of sensitive intelligence access.
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has not publicly commented beyond DHS’s official statement. The ongoing investigation reflects the department’s efforts to address internal challenges while ensuring compliance with established policies.
Experts note that polygraph examinations are often used as part of security clearance procedures, especially for access to classified information. However, the use and interpretation of polygraphs remain contentious within intelligence and security communities.
Meanwhile, the suspensions of career cybersecurity officials have fueled speculation about internal discord at CISA. DHS has maintained that all disciplinary actions conform to department policy and are part of ongoing efforts to uphold the highest standards of performance.
For further information on DHS security protocols and agency leadership, visit the Department of Homeland Security official website. Additional details about federal cybersecurity initiatives can be found at the United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team portal.
As the investigation continues, DHS’s response highlights the complexities of managing classified intelligence access and internal agency governance amid heightened national security concerns.
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