I wanted to highlight a bit of reporting from The Record. Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville has ended his blockade on military promotions, allowing the Senate to confirm most of the 450 nominees. However, the new chief of U.S. Cyber Command, the National Security Agency, and other nominees remain stuck due to various issues and holds placed by senators. Tuberville’s blockade has caused a backlog of leadership moves at Cyber Command and NSA.
And from Axios, a wave of ransomware attacks targeting critical infrastructure is rising, affecting hospitals, water districts, and real estate services companies. The number of ransomware attacks against healthcare entities and schools has already surpassed last year’s totals. While the federal government is investing in the ransomware fight, it will take time for the results to be seen. Frustration is growing as the impacts of ransomware become more severe, but progress is being made, with international law enforcement making key arrests and establishing new cybersecurity positions.
Why do we care?
I just wanted to highlight the impact of Tuberville’s choices. His blockade resulted in zero policy impact at a time when cyber security needs continue to increase.