National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and his deputy, Alex Wong, have been ousted from their positions in the Trump administration following a Signal chat leak involving discussions on military strikes in Yemen. The leak incident, although not involving classified information, led to speculation about Waltz's removal due to the inadvertent addition of the Atlantic magazine's editor-in-chief to the chat. As the Trump administration looks for a replacement, potential candidates include Steve Witkoff, a key negotiator with Russia and Iran, and Richard Grenell, a former ambassador and acting Director of National Intelligence. Steve Witkoff has been actively involved in negotiating peace deals in Ukraine and with Iran over nuclear issues, while Richard Grenell is known for his previous diplomatic roles and current presidency of the Kennedy Center. Elise Stefanik, initially considered for the U.N. ambassador role, withdrew her name to remain in Congress, highlighting the significance of her position in maintaining the Republican majority in the House of Representatives.

Mike Waltz and his deputy were removed from the National Security Council following a Signal chat leak, which included discussions on military actions against Houthi rebels in Yemen and added the Atlantic magazine's editor by mistake.

The Trump administration insists no classified information was compromised in the chat, but speculation about Waltz's ousting had been rife due to the incident.

Steve Witkoff, currently a special envoy to the Middle East and a key negotiator with Russia and Iran, is being considered as a replacement for Waltz. Witkoff has been credited for securing the release of an American imprisoned in Russia and is involved in peace negotiations.

Richard Grenell, former ambassador to Germany and acting Director of National Intelligence, is another potential candidate for the national security advisor role. He currently leads the Kennedy Center and has been floated for other significant roles in the administration.

Elise Stefanik was previously nominated for the U.N. ambassador position but opted to remain in Congress to aid in maintaining the Republican majority, emphasizing her strategic importance in the House.

The Trump administration continues its diplomatic efforts in Ukraine, having secured a deal for access to Ukrainian rare minerals amidst ongoing peace negotiations.

The potential appointment of Stefanik as Waltz's replacement could risk the Republican majority in the House, given the tight margin and her importance in her current congressional role.