New Leadership for Texas Cyber Command as Cyber Threats Escalate
Timothy James “TJ” White, a former U.S. Navy vice admiral, has been appointed to lead the Texas Cyber Command, a newly established state agency tasked with protecting Texas from rising cyber threats. Governor Greg Abbott announced White’s appointment, highlighting his extensive expertise in military cybersecurity and homeland security.
The Texas Cyber Command, which became operational on September 1, is a priority initiative introduced by the state’s Republican leadership. It aims to combat the increasing frequency of cyberattacks targeting Texas, which ranks among the most targeted states in the nation. “Our state is under constant attack by cyber criminals, attacks that occur thousands of times every single second of every single day,” Abbott stated in a news release.
White’s experience includes serving as the former head of the U.S. National Cyber Mission Force at the U.S. Cyber Command. Currently residing in Austin, White owns a cybersecurity company and is seen as a pivotal figure in the fight against cybercrime in Texas. His term as head of the Texas Cyber Command is set to end on February 1, 2027.
The Texas Cyber Command is administered through the University of Texas System and located at the University of Texas at San Antonio. The agency’s responsibilities include threat response, management, forensics, and training in cybersecurity. This new command takes over some of the roles previously managed by the Texas Department of Information Resources.
The push for enhanced cybersecurity measures comes in response to billions of dollars requested by state agencies to combat these threats effectively. The State of Texas Cybersecurity Strategic Plan 2024-2029 underscores the necessity for strong defenses, noting the sophisticated tactics and new technologies used by cyber threat actors.
State Representative Giovanni Capriglione and Senator Tan Parker played significant roles in establishing the Texas Cyber Command. Abbott emphasized the importance of this initiative, saying, “Admiral White and the Texas Cyber Command will serve as essential assets to prevent and protect against cyber breaches to keep Texans safe.”
To learn more about the Texas Cyber Command and its initiatives, visit the U.S. Cyber Command and the State of Texas Cybersecurity Strategic Plan 2024-2029. For more details on the legislative process, see the bill creating the agency.
