About The Steady State
The Steady State is an organization of Former U.S. national security professionals—across intelligence, defense, diplomacy, and homeland security—committed to our oath to defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic. We promote democracy, the rule of law, and a secure America grounded in shared civic values.
The Steady State’s Mission
- Uphold constitutional democracy over partisan politics.
- Publish, speak, and educate on domestic, regional, and global security.
- Defend rule of law, free and fair elections, political civility, and fact-based policymaking.
- Strengthen alliances with like-minded democracies and support professional, ethical governance.
Membership
We are 390+ former national security officials who remain committed to their oaths to “defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic. We are Republicans, Democrats, and Independents who have served under both parties. Our personal politics did not—and do not—shape our commitment to country first.
History And Why We’re Needed Now
The Steady State was formed in 2016 in response to rising authoritarian tendencies and the erosion of U.S. credibility and alliances. We mobilized to safeguard democratic norms and America’s standing in the world. The threats that prompted our action have evolved—and in some cases intensified. Gains are fragile and the need for principled, expert national security leadership is greater than ever.
What We Do
• Provide expert, realistic analysis and recommendations on complex security challenges.
• Publish reports and op-eds; brief leaders and the public; convene civil and inclusive dialogues.
• Hold officials accountable to the Constitution and oppose those who subvert democratic governance.
The Values of The Steady State
• Country over party, always.
• Truth from government and legislatures.
• Speaking out against division, demagoguery, and attacks on the rule of law.
