What to know about Joe Kent, Trump counterterrorism chief who resigned over Iran war

March 19, 2026

TL;DR

Joe Kent resigned as National Counterterrorism Center director, citing disagreement with President Trump's war in Iran.
Kent stated that Iran posed no imminent threat and the war was due to pressure from Israel and its American lobby.
His reasons for resigning contradicted President Trump's assertion of imminent threats from Iran.
Senator Mitch McConnell denounced Kent's comments as "virulent anti-Semitism."
An FBI investigation into Kent for alleged leaks of classified information was reportedly underway before his resignation.
Kent has a history of ties to right-wing extremists, including Nick Fuentes and members of the Proud Boys.
He has also endorsed conspiracy theories, including the stolen 2020 election and claims about the COVID-19 vaccine.
Kent's confirmation as director faced opposition from Democrats due to his right-wing ties.
Kent's late wife, Shannon Kent, was a Navy cryptologist killed in Syria.

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