Rep. Delia Ramirez Named Top Democrat on House Cybersecurity Subcommittee After Eric Swalwell's Resignation

Illinois Rep. Delia Ramirez has officially taken over as the top Democrat on the House Homeland Security panel’s cybersecurity subcommittee, replacing former Rep. Eric Swalwell following his resignation.

The change was approved by committee Democrats on Tuesday during a meeting held prior to a shadow hearing—a session conducted without the participation of the GOP majority. The hearing focused on safeguarding elections from potential interference by the Trump administration.

Ramirez’s Congressional Career and Committee Role

Ramirez first won election to Congress in 2022 and was reelected in 2024. Since 2023, she has served as the vice ranking member of the House Homeland Security Committee. Her new position now makes her the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection.

Criticisms of Trump and Elon Musk’s Cybersecurity Policies

Ramirez has been vocal in her criticism of the Trump administration’s approach to cybersecurity, particularly regarding personnel reductions at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). She has also raised concerns about data security under the Department of Government Efficiency, an initiative led by Elon Musk.

“Under a Musk and Trump presidency, it’s clear that the security of Americans’ information is not a priority. I mean, a private civilian with no security clearance bullied his way into the Treasury, set up private servers, and stole sensitive information from an agency. If that isn’t a national security crisis, a cybersecurity crisis—then I don’t know what is,” Ramirez stated during an early 2025 hearing. “The true threat to our homeland security is ‘fElon’ Musk, Trump, and their blatant misuse of power to steal information and coerce employees to leave agencies.”

Legislative Efforts and Bipartisan Concerns

In addition to her criticisms, Ramirez has been proactive in addressing cybersecurity workforce gaps. Last year, she cosponsored legislation aimed at strengthening the cybersecurity workforce by encouraging participation from underrepresented and disadvantaged communities.

However, Ramirez has also expressed concerns about U.S. cybersecurity under the Biden administration, including the role of Microsoft in the SolarWinds breach.

Leadership Transition and Upcoming Hearings

Swalwell’s departure from the subcommittee followed his resignation from Congress as a representative from California, amid allegations of sexual misconduct.

Ramirez’s appointment completes a full leadership turnover for the subcommittee. Earlier, Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn., assumed the gavel late last year after former chairman Rep. Andrew Garbarino, R-N.Y., became chairman of the full committee.

The subcommittee is scheduled to hold a hearing on Wednesday to examine the role of CISA as the sector risk management agency for critical infrastructure sectors.

A spokesperson for Ramirez did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding her new role.