Mark Esper, once U.S. Secretary of Defense under Donald Trump and now an outspoken critic of the former president, has joined the law firm Squire Patton Boggs as a senior adviser. Known for his candid departure from Trump’s administration, Esper’s latest move aligns him with a firm keenly focused on addressing escalating national security concerns in the corporate world.
Esper, although not a lawyer, will continue to serve as chairman of the national security practice at Red Cell Partners, a venture capital firm, alongside his new role. His insights and experience are expected to offer valuable counsel to clients navigating the increasingly turbulent global political landscape.
Fired by Trump shortly after the 2020 presidential election, Esper has not shied away from criticizing his former boss. In an interview, he questioned Trump’s integrity, accusing him of placing personal interests above those of the nation. His pointed remarks have even surfaced in campaign ads supporting Kamala Harris, Trump’s 2024 Democratic challenger.
Esper’s tenure as Secretary of Defense began in July 2019, following Jim Mattis’ resignation. His memoir reveals unsettling details about Trump’s proposals, including discussions about launching missiles into Mexico to target drug labs, an idea Esper firmly rejected as both illegal and an act of war.
Esper’s addition is seen as a strategic advantage for Squire Patton Boggs as national security challenges increasingly impact global business. The firm’s CEO emphasized the growing demand for expertise in this area, with Esper well-positioned to offer critical guidance.
