Statement by Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff on the Confirmation of Key DHS Leadership

December 20, 2007 -- "I am pleased that the Senate moved to confirm four key leaders at the department last night. Each of them has contributed significantly to the safety and security of our homeland and is integral to the continued maturation of the department.

Robert D. Jamison, Under Secretary, National Protection & Programs Directorate, is an outstanding leader on a number of our highest priorities, including strengthening our cyber security and working with private industry to harden critical infrastructure. I also rely on Robert for his work with US-VISIT, as the program rapidly expands 10-fingerprint collection at our ports and overseas.

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Julie L. Myers, Assistant Secretary, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has this new and powerful law enforcement agency performing the way Congress envisioned when it was created almost five years ago. Under her leadership, worksite enforcement arrests have quadrupled, gang members and child predators are being apprehended in record numbers, deportations are at an all time high, and the number of fugitive alien operations teams are growingly dramatically. I want to personally thank Chairmen Lieberman and Leahy, Ranking Members Collins and Specter and their committees, as well as Majority Leader Reid, for their recognition of the performance of the men and women of ICE during Julie's tenure.

Dr. Jeffrey W. Runge, MD, Chief Medical Officer and Assistant Secretary for the Office of Health Affairs, has been key in coordinating federal efforts in the areas of bio-defense and medical planning and preparedness. I have relied heavily on Jeff's experience and intellect for more than two years on the most pressing health and public safety issues facing the American public.

Ross Ashley, Assistant Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), brings important energy and ideas to a new FEMA, and will further strengthen the agency's ability to effectively and efficiently prepare for and respond to emergencies and natural disasters.

I congratulate each of them on their confirmation and look forward to their ongoing service to the homeland."

Source: DHS