White House Names New Acting National Cyber Director After Kemba Walden’s Resignation

The Biden administration is naming a new acting national cyber director as confirmation of a permanent leader is stalled by Congress’ Thanksgiving recess.

The Office of the National Cyber Director has named Drenan Dudley as a replacement for Kemba Walden, who had been holding the role in an acting capacity since the departure of Chris Inglis in March, Nextgov/FCW reported.

In a statement, Dudley said she is excited to head the implementation of the National Cybersecurity Strategy and support the Biden administration’s initiatives on building a secure and resilient cyberspace.

Dudley is the office’s incumbent deputy national cyber director for strategy and budget. She oversees strategy and budget priorities, working alongside the Office of Management and Budget.

Dudley’s appointment as the next acting national cyber director comes as a Senate committee sent Harry Coker Jr., Biden’s nominee for the permanent role, to the Senate for a vote. Sen. Angus King, I-Maine, said he will ask Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., to hold a vote on the nomination when the Senate returns from the Thanksgiving holiday.