Introduction Quantum computers harness the laws of quantum physics to process information in fundamentally different ways than classical computers, enabling them to solve certain complex problems far faster than today's most powerful supercomputers.1 Noting its "transformational capabilities" and national security implications, on June 22, 2026, President Trump signed two executive orders addressing the quantum computing landscape. The first order, Executive Order (EO) No. 14412, Securing the Nation Against Advanced Cryptographic Attacks, directs a government-wide migration to post-quantum cryptography and extends compliance obligations to federal contractors.2 The second order, EO No. 14413, Ushering in the Next Frontier of Quantum Innovation, establishes initiatives and commits resources to developing and commercializing quantum technologies.3 Together, they prescribe defensive efforts to guard against future threats of quantum-based cyberattacks and encourage proactive measures in the public sector to establish the United States as a world leader in the field of quantum information science and technology (QIST). Defensive Measures vs. Proactive Efforts Executive Order No. 14412 The first order addresses defensive measures that must be taken to guard against the cybersecurity threat that is posed by quantum-computing technology. The first order highlights the "harvest now, decrypt later" risk – the risk that adversaries are collecting encrypted U.S. data today to decrypt once quantum computers reach sufficient scale. The order mandates the transition of federal systems to post-quantum cryptography (PQC), algorithms built to resist both quantum and classical attacks. Although aimed at agencies, its reach extends to contractors, critical infrastructure operators, and vendors. Key requirements include: - Strategic Coordination. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the National Cyber Director lead nationwide PQC migration, with technical guidance from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) that may become benchmarks for the private sector. - Agency Migration Plans. Within 30 days, each agency must name a "PQC