RELEASE:
Thompson Statement on Kelly Pick to Run DHS
December 7, 2016 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, released the following statement following reports that General John F. Kelly will be nominated to be the next Homeland Security Secretary:
“General Kelly’s depth of experience in managing large, complex organizations will be necessary for running a department with the size and complexity of DHS. Although I am troubled by his alarmist statements in the past on the security of our borders, I hope General Kelly’s decades of experience in working in government and with our international partners will be put to good use in the new Administration.”
“Unfortunately, the President-elect has created an uphill battle for DHS with his extreme rhetoric on many issues from immigration to terrorism, and some of his appointments seem to share these views. However, the Secretary of Homeland Security must be a measured, unbiased voice with our nation’s national security as top priority. I look forward to hearing more from the Secretary designee and the incoming Administration soon on how they want to lead the Department and keep the country secure.”
12/6/16