The Trump administration has appointed Elias Irizarry, who participated in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, to a role in the Defense Department's Special Operations and Low Intensity Conflict office.

This office oversees special operations, irregular warfare, and counterterrorism efforts, handling sensitive matters such as embassy security, personnel recovery, and hostage rescue missions.

Irizarry, who was 19 and a Citadel cadet at the time of the riot, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of entering a restricted area and was sentenced to 14 days in jail.He later expressed regret for his actions.

The appointment has drawn significant internal concerns within the Pentagon due to Irizarry's junior status, limited experience in the Department of Defense, and his past legal issues related to the Capitol events.

Critics argue that placing someone with this background in such a sensitive position could pose risks, especially amid the administration's new national security protocols labeling certain left-wing groups as domestic terror threats.

The decision has sparked backlash on social media, with political analysts and observers questioning the judgment and potential implications for national security standards.

Supporters of the move have not been prominently featured in reports, but the hire aligns with broader Trump administration efforts to integrate individuals previously involved in January 6 cases following presidential pardons.The Washington Post first reported the story, citing multiple sources familiar with the matter who spoke anonymously due to fear of retaliation.