Admiral Linda Lee Fagan, 61, has been relieved of her duties as Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard due to concerns regarding border security, recruitment challenges, and a breakdown in trust, a senior DHS official confirmed to Fox News.

Fagan was dismissed by Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Benjamine Huffman, who cited her leadership shortcomings, operational failures, and inability to meet strategic goals. Among the key issues, Fagan’s failure to address border security threats effectively and mismanagement of vital resources, including icebreakers and helicopters, were central. The official also criticized her overemphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, arguing that it diverted focus from the Coast Guard’s operational priorities.

Fagan was accused of not deploying assets effectively to combat border security threats, including efforts to intercept fentanyl and other illicit substances. Her leadership in recruitment and retention was also criticized, with a lack of innovative strategies to address workforce issues. Delays and cost overruns in acquiring critical assets further undermined the Coast Guard’s operational capabilities, particularly in strategic areas like the Arctic.

Another major issue was Fagan’s mishandling of Operation Fouled Anchor, the Coast Guard’s internal investigation into sexual assault cases at the Academy. She faced significant criticism for not adequately addressing the systemic issues revealed by the investigation and for withholding documents from Congress. These factors contributed to what officials described as an “erosion of trust” in her leadership.