Key Facts
Key Information
About
The Center for Security Policy (CSP) is a Washington, D.C.–based far-right neoconservative think tank founded in 1988 by Frank J. Gaffney Jr. It focuses on national security and defense policy, with particular emphasis on counterterrorism, countering Islamist ideologies and extremism, threats from China, and nuclear proliferation. Operating under the DBA Secure Freedom, CSP runs initiatives and media programs such as a counter-jihad campaign, the website counterjihad.com, and Secure Freedom Radio.
CSP has played a role in policy debates—most notably influencing positions associated with the Trump administration's Muslim travel ban and supporting state-level anti-Sharia measures, including Oklahoma's State Question 755. The organization is financially supported by conservative foundations and maintains affiliations with like-minded organizations.
CSP has been described as a major hub for anti-Muslim rhetoric, often portraying Islam as an existential threat and advancing claims about Muslim infiltration of governments and societies. Its materials and rhetoric have been criticized by groups such as the Southern Poverty Law Center for promoting Islamophobia and anti-Muslim propaganda, and its work has been cited in controversial contexts, including by Norwegian terrorist Anders Breivik. Leadership changed in 2023 when former U.S. Marine Tommy Waller became president; Gaffney continues as executive chairman. The organization continues to face scrutiny for ideological extremism.