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Thompson: Senate Must Scrutinize DHS Nominee History & Experience

October 16, 2017

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Thompson: Senate Must Scrutinize DHS Nominee History & Experience

October 16, 2017 (WASHINGTON) – Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, sent a letter to Senator Ron Johnson, Chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs, urging him to scrutinize Kirstjen Nielsen's professional background and experience thoroughly during her confirmation process to potentially become Homeland Security Secretary.

Excerpt from letter:

While I am pleased the President has finally named a nominee for this critical national security position, I am greatly troubled by Ms. Nielsen's record as Senior Director for Preparedness and Response at the White House Homeland Security Council during the Bush Administration's botched response to Hurricane Katrina. Given the ongoing tragedy in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, along with other homeland security challenges facing our Nation, the Department of Homeland Security must have a proven, capable leader as Secretary. Unfortunately, Ms. Nielsen's record raises questions about her suitability for such a position.

Link to letter

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