National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, a central figure in the growing “Signalgate” controversy, is under renewed scrutiny after federal election records revealed he previously donated nearly $10,000 to prominent Republican figures who were staunch opponents of President Donald Trump—without donating anything to Trump himself.
According to a report by RealClearInvestigations journalist Paul Sperry, Federal Election Commission (FEC) data shows Waltz contributed a total of $8,150 to three high-profile GOP presidential candidates known for their opposition to Trump: former Senator Mitt Romney of Utah, the late Senator John McCain of Arizona, and former Florida Governor Jeb Bush.
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Waltz’s largest single contribution went to Romney, totaling $5,000. Bush received $2,700, while McCain’s campaign received $450. All three politicians were vocal critics of Trump’s political style and policies, often aligning themselves with the so-called “Never Trump” wing of the Republican Party, told CBS News.
The revelations come at a sensitive moment for Waltz, who has been in the spotlight since The Atlantic published a bombshell report on Monday. The article alleged that Waltz had invited the magazine’s editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, into a Signal messaging group chat where senior Trump administration officials—including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth—discussed classified military plans, including a bombing operation in Yemen.
Waltz addressed the situation on Tuesday, saying he took “full responsibility” for the leak, but also hinted at a possible mix-up, suggesting Goldberg may have somehow inserted himself into the group. Despite taking the blame, Waltz’s remarks have done little to quiet the storm surrounding the breach, which has triggered bipartisan concern over national security protocols.
The donation disclosures have only added fuel to the fire, raising questions among Trump loyalists about Waltz’s long-term political loyalty to the president he now serves. Critics point to his past advisory role under Vice President Dick Cheney as further evidence of his establishment ties.
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While there’s no legal issue with political donations made before his White House role, the optics of a top national security advisor giving thousands to Trump’s GOP rivals—without donating to Trump himself—are politically charged, especially as the administration faces mounting backlash over its handling of sensitive information.
The unfolding controversy continues to cast a long shadow over Trump’s inner circle and raises new concerns about internal alignment and trust within the administration.
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