According to the White House.

According to Wikipedia.

The National Security Council (NSC) is a key advisory body in the United States government responsible for providing the President with advice on matters related to national security and foreign policy. It was established in 1947 by the National Security Act and operates within the Executive Office of the President.

The NSC is chaired by the President and typically includes the Vice President, the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, and other high-ranking officials, such as the National Security Advisor. The National Security Advisor serves as the chief advisor to the President on national security issues and heads the National Security Council staff.

The council plays a crucial role in coordinating and integrating policies across various government agencies to ensure a unified approach to national security matters. It addresses a wide range of issues, including defense, intelligence, diplomacy, and homeland security, with the goal of safeguarding the interests and security of the United States.


Imagine the National Security Council (NSC) as a team of people who help the President make important decisions about keeping the country safe. It’s like having a group of advisors who focus on things like defense, foreign relations, and overall national security.

The team is led by the President and includes other important people like the Vice President, the Secretary of State (who deals with foreign affairs), and the Secretary of Defense (who manages the military). They all work together to figure out the best strategies to protect the United States from potential threats.

Think of the NSC as a group of experts who provide advice and come up with plans to ensure the country stays secure. They discuss things like international relationships, potential risks, and ways to keep everyone safe at home and abroad. It’s a bit like having a “safety team” for the entire nation!