### Controversy Over Sebastian Gorka Prompts Withdrawal of Michael Anton from Trump Administration Role

Michael Anton, a conservative speechwriter and national security official from Donald Trump's first administration, has reportedly removed himself from consideration for the role of deputy national security adviser. This decision came after learning that he would have to work with Sebastian Gorka, President-elect Trump's controversial choice for counter-terrorism adviser, the Washington Post reported.

The backdrop to Anton's withdrawal is the strained relationship he has with Gorka, who himself is a polarizing figure. Gorka was ejected from Trump’s first administration within the span of seven months, a move attributed to then-White House Chief of Staff John Kelly. Kelly, who resigned from his position and has since criticized Trump, orchestrated Gorka’s departure in an effort to bring order to the tumultuous early months of Trump’s presidency.

Gorka's presence in the administration has sparked significant discomfort due to his contentious views and history. He has faced numerous accusations of Islamophobia and maintained a hardline stance on Islam, describing it as a threat to western civilization. Gorka's support for the Muslim travel ban and criticism of failing to use the term "radical Islamic terrorism" have only bolstered his controversial reputation.

The hostility between Anton and Gorka is well-documented. Anton, who was considered for a deputy role under prospective national security advisor Mike Waltz, has harshly condemned Gorka's past actions. The Washington Post noted that within Trump's national security transition team, nearly everyone regards Gorka derisively, with one insider likening him to a "clown."

Former National Security Adviser John Bolton, another figure from Trump’s first term, has also expressed severe doubts about Gorka's qualifications. He publicly dismissed Gorka as a "conman" and suggested the FBI should scrutinize Gorka’s credentials, claiming that Gorka’s involvement would be detrimental to counterterrorism efforts.

The concerns surrounding Gorka are compounded by his affiliations and public statements. He drew particular criticism for wearing a medal from Vitézi Rend, a Hungarian nationalist organization with historical ties to the Holocaust, during Trump’s first inauguration ball. Gorka’s forthright dismissal of common explanations for Islamist terrorism reflects his unwavering belief in the paramount role of religious ideology, a stance that has sparked significant opposition.

Anton’s decision to withdraw highlights the deep reservations held by members of Trump’s team regarding Gorka's return, signaling potential challenges ahead for national security appointments in the incoming administration.