Meet Mora Namdar: Trump-Appointed Visa Chief and Unconventional Entrepreneur

Mora Namdar, a 38-year-old Iranian-American lawyer and part-time salon owner, has been confirmed as the Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs. This appointment, which received approval from the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, marks her second tenure in this role.Namdar's career spans various government agencies and policy areas, including serving as a senior adviser at the State Department, where she focused on US policy concerning Iran. Her expertise in US national security and international human rights issues has earned her recognition as an authority in her field.Before entering politics, Namdar managed a chain of beauty salons called Bam in Texas, offering services such as hair extensions and makeup applications. She has described her business as 'fun and cheeky,' which was born out of her friends' requests for makeup services at weddings and special occasions.Namdar's appointment is notable, given her unconventional background as a salon owner. However, her experience in government and policy has prepared her for this role. Additionally, she has contributed to Project 2025, a report that criticized the US Agency for Global Media, a federal entity overseeing U.S.-funded broadcasters such as Voice of America and Radio Free Europe. In the report, Namdar advocated for reform or closure of the agency, citing mismanagement and security risks.