It is an honour and a privilege to serve as the newly appointed Secretary of Homeland Security. I am humbled by the trust placed in me and fully recognise the responsibility that comes with leading a department dedicated to protecting our nation, supporting our communities, and ensuring the safety of those we serve.
My appointment as Secretary represents the continuation of a journey I have been proud to be part of since joining the Department of Homeland Security. Throughout my previous service within DHS leadership, I have worked alongside dedicated members across our divisions to strengthen operations, improve organisational structure, and build the foundations of a more professional and effective department.
Having been directly involved in the development and growth of DHS, I understand both the challenges we face and the potential this Department holds. I have seen first-hand the dedication of our personnel, the importance of strong leadership, and the value of creating a department that is prepared, organised, and capable of responding to any challenge.
Before looking ahead, I want to recognise the work of former Secretary chedvn. Their leadership helped guide the Department through a period of significant growth and improvement, establishing a strong foundation for the future. The progress we have made would not have been possible without the dedication, commitment, and countless hours contributed by Secretary chedvn and the entire DHS team.
Over recent months, the Department has continued to strengthen its operations and improve the way we serve the public. We have rebuilt and expanded key capabilities, improved internal organisation, and focused on creating a more professional and effective Homeland Security presence.
Among our accomplishments, we have:
Restored the United States Secret Service’s operational readiness by establishing a consistent minimum staffing presence of eight agents during major events.
Updated the Law Enforcement Helicopter Taskforce structure to better support new equipment, improve aviation operations, and enhance aerial security capabilities.
Released a new public-facing Department of Homeland Security website, providing a central platform for information, recruitment, announcements, and department resources.
Maintained Special Response Team staffing while improving its structure, readiness, and ability to respond to critical incidents.
Expanded and strengthened Customs and Border Protection operations, improving border security responsibilities and supporting a wider range of missions.
Continued the development of a stronger DHS executive structure, improving communication, accountability, and coordination across all divisions.
These achievements represent the dedication of the men and women across every DHS division. Whether serving with the United States Secret Service, Customs and Border Protection, the Law Enforcement Helicopter Taskforce, Special Response Team, Public Affairs, or within our wider leadership structure, every member has contributed to moving this Department forward.
However, our work is far from complete.
The Department of Homeland Security must continue to adapt, improve, and prepare for the challenges ahead. Moving forward, my priorities will be focused on strengthening training standards, expanding operational readiness, improving communication between divisions, and ensuring every member of this Department has the resources and support needed to succeed.
We will continue modernising our systems, improving transparency with the public, expanding opportunities for those who wish to serve, and building a DHS that represents professionalism, dedication, and commitment.
This is only the beginning of the next chapter for the Department of Homeland Security. I am excited for what we will accomplish together, and I look forward to working alongside every member of this Department as we continue our mission.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to protecting our nation.