**Trump's Potential Choices for Deputy National Security Adviser Stir Controversy**

President-elect Donald Trump's consideration of Michael Anton and Sebastian Gorka for the role of deputy national security adviser has ignited concern among Washington insiders. Both candidates, known for their hardline views and previous stints in Trump’s first administration, are seen as controversial figures likely to provoke strong reactions.

According to sources familiar with the transition, Trump has already chosen Rep. Michael Waltz of Florida as his national security adviser, a position that does not require Senate confirmation. The selection of Anton or Gorka for the deputy role would signal a combative stance on foreign policy for the upcoming administration. Anton is perceived to be the frontrunner, potentially due to his extensive experience as a speechwriter for prominent figures like Rupert Murdoch, Rudy Giuliani, and Condoleezza Rice. Anton's tenure in the Trump administration began in 2017 when he served as deputy assistant to the president for strategic communications. He has drawn criticism for promoting anti-Islamic rhetoric, deriding the Black Lives Matter movement, and spreading conspiracy theories, including those about billionaire George Soros and the Democratic Party planning a coup before the 2020 election.

Sebastian Gorka, another key contender, is an ally of Steve Bannon who was appointed as a deputy assistant to Trump in early 2017. Gorka has sparked controversy with statements claiming violence is fundamental to the Islamic faith and for his advisory role to Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. His involvement in the Trump administration was marked by criticism, as he frequently attended meetings uninvited and raised unrelated issues. Furthermore, his academic credentials have faced scrutiny from scholars.

A spokesperson for Trump and his team indicated that personnel decisions are still in progress. While Anton did not respond to requests for comment, Gorka declined to comment but pointedly suggested a disparaging remark to the reporter.

The potential appointment of either Anton or Gorka is viewed as a clear indication of Trump's intention to adopt a rigorous and confrontational approach in his foreign policy. Such appointments underscore the deep divisions within the political sphere in Washington and hint at the tumultuous path ahead for Trump's administration.