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United States Secretary of Homeland Security

Updated: Wikipedia source

United States Secretary of Homeland Security

The United States secretary of homeland security is the head of the United States Department of Homeland Security, the federal department tasked with ensuring public safety in the United States. The secretary is a member of the Cabinet of the United States. The position was created by the Homeland Security Act following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. The new department consisted primarily of components transferred from other Cabinet departments because of their role in homeland security, such as the Coast Guard, the Federal Protective Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (which includes the United States Border Patrol), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (which includes Homeland Security Investigations), the United States Secret Service, the Transportation Security Administration and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The current secretary of homeland security since January 25, 2025 is Kristi Noem.

Infobox

Seat
St. Elizabeths West Campus, Washington, D.C., U.S.
Style
Madam Secretary (informal)The Honorable (formal)
Deputy
Deputy Secretary
Salary
Executive Schedule, Level I
Website
dhs.gov
Appointer
The presidentwith Senate advice and consent
Formation
January 24, 2003(22 years ago) (2003-01-24)
Member of
CabinetHomeland Security CouncilNational Security Council
Reports to
President of the United States
Succession
Eighteenth
Term length
No fixed term
First holder
Tom Ridge
Constituting instrument
6 U.S.C. § 112

Tables

· List of secretaries of homeland security
Tom Ridge(Born Aug 26, 1945)
Tom Ridge(Born Aug 26, 1945)
No.
1
Name
Tom Ridge(Born Aug 26, 1945)
Senate vote
94–0
Term of office
January 24, 2003
Term of office
February 1, 2005
Term of office
2 years, 8 days
State of residence
Pennsylvania
President
George W. Bush(2001–2009)
James Loy .mw- [a](Born Aug 10, 1942)Acting
James Loy .mw- [a](Born Aug 10, 1942)Acting
No.
Name
James Loy .mw- [a](Born Aug 10, 1942)Acting
Senate vote
Term of office
February 1, 2005
Term of office
February 15, 2005
Term of office
14 days
State of residence
Pennsylvania
Michael Chertoff(Born Nov 28, 1953)
Michael Chertoff(Born Nov 28, 1953)
No.
2
Name
Michael Chertoff(Born Nov 28, 1953)
Senate vote
98–0
Term of office
February 15, 2005
Term of office
January 21, 2009
Term of office
3 years, 341 days
State of residence
New Jersey
Janet Napolitano(Born Nov 29, 1957)
Janet Napolitano(Born Nov 29, 1957)
No.
3
Name
Janet Napolitano(Born Nov 29, 1957)
Senate vote
Voice vote
Term of office
January 21, 2009
Term of office
September 6, 2013
Term of office
4 years, 228 days
State of residence
Arizona
President
Barack Obama(2009–2017)
Rand Beers[b] (Born Nov 30, 1942)Acting
Rand Beers[b] (Born Nov 30, 1942)Acting
No.
Name
Rand Beers[b] (Born Nov 30, 1942)Acting
Senate vote
Term of office
September 6, 2013
Term of office
December 23, 2013
Term of office
108 days
State of residence
District of Columbia
Jeh Johnson(Born Sept 11, 1957)
Jeh Johnson(Born Sept 11, 1957)
No.
4
Name
Jeh Johnson(Born Sept 11, 1957)
Senate vote
78–16
Term of office
December 23, 2013
Term of office
January 20, 2017
Term of office
3 years, 28 days
State of residence
New Jersey
John F. Kelly(Born May 11, 1950)
John F. Kelly(Born May 11, 1950)
No.
5
Name
John F. Kelly(Born May 11, 1950)
Senate vote
88–11
Term of office
January 20, 2017
Term of office
July 31, 2017
Term of office
192 days
State of residence
Massachusetts
President
Donald Trump(2017–2021)
Elaine Duke[c] (Born June 26, 1958)Acting
Elaine Duke[c] (Born June 26, 1958)Acting
No.
Name
Elaine Duke[c] (Born June 26, 1958)Acting
Senate vote
Term of office
July 31, 2017
Term of office
December 6, 2017
Term of office
128 days
State of residence
Ohio
Kirstjen Nielsen(Born May 14, 1972)
Kirstjen Nielsen(Born May 14, 1972)
No.
6
Name
Kirstjen Nielsen(Born May 14, 1972)
Senate vote
62–37
Term of office
December 6, 2017
Term of office
April 10, 2019
Term of office
1 year, 125 days
State of residence
Florida
Kevin McAleenan[d] (Born Sept 5, 1971)Acting; unlawful tenure
Kevin McAleenan[d] (Born Sept 5, 1971)Acting; unlawful tenure
No.
Name
Kevin McAleenan[d] (Born Sept 5, 1971)Acting; unlawful tenure
Senate vote
Term of office
April 10, 2019
Term of office
November 13, 2019
Term of office
217 days
State of residence
Hawaii
Chad Wolf[e] (Born June 21, 1976)Acting; unlawful tenure
Chad Wolf[e] (Born June 21, 1976)Acting; unlawful tenure
No.
Name
Chad Wolf[e] (Born June 21, 1976)Acting; unlawful tenure
Senate vote
Term of office
November 13, 2019
Term of office
January 11, 2021
Term of office
1 year, 59 days
State of residence
Virginia
Pete Gaynor[f](Born 1968)Acting
Pete Gaynor[f](Born 1968)Acting
No.
Name
Pete Gaynor[f](Born 1968)Acting
Senate vote
Term of office
January 11, 2021
Term of office
January 20, 2021
Term of office
9 days
State of residence
Rhode Island
David Pekoske[g](Born May 5, 1955)Acting
David Pekoske[g](Born May 5, 1955)Acting
No.
Name
David Pekoske[g](Born May 5, 1955)Acting
Senate vote
Term of office
January 20, 2021
Term of office
February 2, 2021
Term of office
13 days
State of residence
Connecticut
President
Joe Biden(2021–2025)
Alejandro Mayorkas(Born Nov 24, 1959)
Alejandro Mayorkas(Born Nov 24, 1959)
No.
7
Name
Alejandro Mayorkas(Born Nov 24, 1959)
Senate vote
56–43
Term of office
February 2, 2021
Term of office
January 20, 2025
Term of office
3 years, 353 days
State of residence
District of Columbia
Benjamine Huffman[h]Acting
Benjamine Huffman[h]Acting
No.
Name
Benjamine Huffman[h]Acting
Senate vote
Term of office
January 20, 2025
Term of office
January 25, 2025
Term of office
5 days
State of residence
Texas
President
Donald Trump(2025–present)
Kristi Noem(Born Nov 30, 1971)
Kristi Noem(Born Nov 30, 1971)
No.
8
Name
Kristi Noem(Born Nov 30, 1971)
Senate vote
59–34
Term of office
January 25, 2025
Term of office
Incumbent
Term of office
282 days
State of residence
South Dakota
No.
Portrait
Name
Senate vote
Term of office
State of residence
President
Took office
Left office
Duration
1
Tom Ridge(Born Aug 26, 1945)
94–0
January 24, 2003
February 1, 2005
2 years, 8 days
Pennsylvania
George W. Bush(2001–2009)
James Loy [a](Born Aug 10, 1942)Acting
February 1, 2005
February 15, 2005
14 days
Pennsylvania
2
Michael Chertoff(Born Nov 28, 1953)
98–0
February 15, 2005
January 21, 2009
3 years, 341 days
New Jersey
3
Janet Napolitano(Born Nov 29, 1957)
Voice vote
January 21, 2009
September 6, 2013
4 years, 228 days
Arizona
Barack Obama(2009–2017)
Rand Beers[b] (Born Nov 30, 1942)Acting
September 6, 2013
December 23, 2013
108 days
District of Columbia
4
Jeh Johnson(Born Sept 11, 1957)
78–16
December 23, 2013
January 20, 2017
3 years, 28 days
New Jersey
5
John F. Kelly(Born May 11, 1950)
88–11
January 20, 2017
July 31, 2017
192 days
Massachusetts
Donald Trump(2017–2021)
Elaine Duke[c] (Born June 26, 1958)Acting
July 31, 2017
December 6, 2017
128 days
Ohio
6
Kirstjen Nielsen(Born May 14, 1972)
62–37
December 6, 2017
April 10, 2019
1 year, 125 days
Florida
Kevin McAleenan[d] (Born Sept 5, 1971)Acting; unlawful tenure
April 10, 2019
November 13, 2019
217 days
Hawaii
Chad Wolf[e] (Born June 21, 1976)Acting; unlawful tenure
November 13, 2019
January 11, 2021
1 year, 59 days
Virginia
Pete Gaynor[f](Born 1968)Acting
January 11, 2021
January 20, 2021
9 days
Rhode Island
David Pekoske[g](Born May 5, 1955)Acting
January 20, 2021
February 2, 2021
13 days
Connecticut
Joe Biden(2021–2025)
7
Alejandro Mayorkas(Born Nov 24, 1959)
56–43
February 2, 2021
January 20, 2025
3 years, 353 days
District of Columbia
Benjamine Huffman[h]Acting
January 20, 2025
January 25, 2025
5 days
Texas
Donald Trump(2025–present)
8
Kristi Noem(Born Nov 30, 1971)
59–34
January 25, 2025
Incumbent
282 days
South Dakota
Components of the Office of the Secretary of Homeland Security · Office of the Secretary of Homeland Security › Composition
Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL)
Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL)
Component
Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL)
Mission
Supports the Department's mission to secure the nation while preserving individual liberty, fairness, and equality under the law. Builds in civil rights and civil liberties practices into all of the Department’s activities.
Executives
Officer for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties: Shoba Sivaprasad Wadhia Deputy Officer for Programs & Compliance: Peter Mina Deputy Officer for EEO and Diversity: Veronica Venture
Subordinate Components
Programs and Compliance Division Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity Division Office for Accessible Systems and Technology (jointly run with DHS Office of the Chief Information Officer)
Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman (CISOMB)
Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman (CISOMB)
Component
Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman (CISOMB)
Mission
Serves as a liaison between the public and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Helps individuals and employers resolve issues they are having with USCIS. Holds engagements to hear from the public about their experiences with USCIS. Identifies issues in the immigration system and make recommendations to USCIS on how to address these problems.
Executives
CIS Ombudsman: Nathan Stiefel (acting) Deputy Ombudsman: Nathan Stiefel
Subordinate Components
Policy Division Public Engagement Division Casework Division Operations Division Strategy Division
Climate Change Action Group
Climate Change Action Group
Component
Climate Change Action Group
Mission
Drives urgent action to address the climate crisis. Analyzes, on an ongoing basis, the impacts of climate change on DHS missions, assets, and personnel. Adapts DHS operations, assets, and missions to account for the climate crisis via risk- based strategies. Coordinates DHS-wide sustainability operations to mitigate additional harm. Recommends specific, concrete steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Recommends specific, concrete steps to promote resilience and adaptation to reduce the multiple risks posed by the climate crisis. Recommends organizational and resource realignments as necessary to support the Department’s activities to address the climate crisis.
Executives
Co-Chairs: Cass Sunstein & Robert P. Silvers
Office of the Executive Secretary (ESEC)
Office of the Executive Secretary (ESEC)
Component
Office of the Executive Secretary (ESEC)
Mission
Provides all manner of direct support to the Secretary of Homeland Security and Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security, as well as related support to leadership and management across the DHS. Accurate and timely dissemination of information and written communications.
Executives
Executive Secretary: Kimberly O'Connor
Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman (OIDO)
Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman (OIDO)
Component
Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman (OIDO)
Mission
Assists individuals with complaints about the potential violation of immigration detention standards or other misconduct by DHS (or contract) personnel. Provides oversight of immigration detention facilities.
Executives
ID Ombudsman: David Gersten (acting) ID Deputy Ombudsman: N/A
Subordinate Components
Case Management Division Detention Oversight Division Policy and Standards Division External Relations Division Operations and Resource Management Division Program Integration Division
Family Reunification Task Force
Family Reunification Task Force
Component
Family Reunification Task Force
Mission
Committed to the safe reunification of families that were unjustly separated at the U.S.-Mexico border.
Executives
Chair: Alejandro Mayorkas Executive Director: Michelle Brané
Subordinate Components
Includes the secretaries of Homeland Security, Health and Human Services, and State, as well as the Attorney General. It also includes several other officials from the DHS, DOJ, HHS, and State Department.
Office of the General Counsel (OGC)
Office of the General Counsel (OGC)
Component
Office of the General Counsel (OGC)
Mission
Provides complete, accurate, and timely legal advice on possible courses of action for the DHS. Ensures that homeland security policies are implemented lawfully, quickly, and efficiently. Protects the rights and liberties of any Americans who come in contact with the Department of Homeland Security. Facilitates quick responses to congressional requests for information. Represents the department in venues across the country, including in U.S. immigration courts. The OGC accomplishes these tasks with over 3,000 attorneys.
Executives
General Counsel: Jonathan Meyer Deputy General Counsel: Joseph B. Maher CBP Chief Counsel: Frederick B. Smith CISA Chief Counsel: Spencer Fisher USCIS Chief Counsel: A. Ashley Tabaddor USCG Judge Advocate General: Melissa Bert FEMA Chief Counsel: Adrian Sevier FLETC Chief Counsel: Trisha Besselman (acting) ICE Principal Legal Advisor: Kerry Doyle USSS Chief Counsel: Thomas F. Huse TSA Chief Counsel: Francine Kerner
Subordinate Components
Ethics & Compliance Law Division General Law Division Immigration Law Division Intelligence Law Division Legal Counsel Division Operations and Enforcement Law Division Regulatory Affairs Law Division Technology Programs Law Division
Joint Requirements Council (JRC)
Joint Requirements Council (JRC)
Component
Joint Requirements Council (JRC)
Mission
Validates capability gaps. Associated with operational requirements and proposed solution approaches to mitigate those gaps through the Joint Requirements Integration and Management System (JRIMS). Leverages opportunities for commonality to enhance operational effectiveness directly and better inform the DHS’ main investment pillars.
Executives
Executive Director: Joseph D. Wawro
Subordinate Components
The JRC consists of the Principals Council – the operational Components (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Federal Emergency Management Agency, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Secret Service, Transportation Security Administration, U.S. Coast Guard, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services), I&A, Management, CIO, Policy, and S&T.
Office of the Military Advisor
Office of the Military Advisor
Component
Office of the Military Advisor
Mission
Provides counsel and support to the Secretary and Deputy Secretary in affairs relating to policy, procedures, preparedness activities, and operations between DHS and the U.S. Department of Defense.
Executives
Military Advisor to the Secretary: Rear Admiral Michael Platt
Office of Partnership and Engagement (OPE)
Office of Partnership and Engagement (OPE)
Component
Office of Partnership and Engagement (OPE)
Mission
Coordinates the Department of Homeland Security’s outreach efforts with key stakeholders nationwide. Ensures a unified approach to external engagement amongst the DHS.
Executives
Assistant Secretary for Partnership and Engagement: Brenda F. Abdelall Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary: Rebecca Sternhell Deputy Assistant Secretary, Office of Intergovernmental Affairs: › miriam-enriquez-26176910b Miriam Enriquez Deputy Assistant Secretary, Private Sector Office: Jamie Lawrence
Subordinate Components
Office of Intergovernmental Affairs State and Local Affairs Tribal Government Affairs Private Sector Office Office of Academic Engagement Faith-Based Security Advisory Council Committee Management Office Homeland Security Advisory Council Office of Social Impact and Campaigns Director, Non-Governmental Organizations
Privacy Office
Privacy Office
Component
Privacy Office
Mission
Protects individuals by embedding and enforcing privacy protections and transparency in all DHS activities.
Executives
Chief Privacy Officer: Mason C. Clutter (concurrently serves as the DHS Chief Freedom of Information Officer)
Subordinate Components
Senior Policy Advisor and Executive Director, Strategy and Integration Deputy Chief FOIA Officer Senior Director, FOIA Operations and Management Director of Disclosure Senior Director, Litigation, Appeals, and Policy Director, Policy, Oversight, Compliance Deputy Chief Privacy Officer Senior Director, Privacy Compliance Director, Privacy Compliance Senior Director, Privacy Policy and Oversight Director, Privacy Policy Director, Privacy Incidents Director, Privacy Oversight Chief of Staff Director, Business Operations Director, Communications & Training
Office of Public Affairs (OPA)
Office of Public Affairs (OPA)
Component
Office of Public Affairs (OPA)
Mission
Coordinates the public affairs activities of all of the components and offices of the DHS. Serves as the federal government’s lead public information office during a national emergency or disaster.
Executives
Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs: Daniel Watson Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Communications: Luis Miranda Deputy Assistant Secretary for Media Relations: Sarah Schakow Deputy Assistant Secretary for Strategic Communications: Jeff Solnet
Subordinate Components
DHS Press Office Incident and Strategic Communications Multimedia Speechwriting Web Communications Internal Communications
Office of Strategy, Policy, and Plans (OSP&P)
Office of Strategy, Policy, and Plans (OSP&P)
Component
Office of Strategy, Policy, and Plans (OSP&P)
Mission
Serves as a central resource to the Secretary and other department leaders for strategic planning and analysis, and facilitation of decision-making on the full breadth of issues that may arise across the dynamic homeland security enterprise
Executives
Under Secretary for Strategy, Policy, and Plans: Robert Silvers Deputy Under Secretary: Kelli Ann Burriesci
Subordinate Components
Chief of Staff Assistant Secretary for Border and Immigration Policy Deputy Assistant Secretary, Border and Immigration Deputy Assistant Secretary, Immigration Statistics Assistant Secretary for Counterterrorism and Threat Prevention Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Counterterrorism and Threat Prevention Deputy Assistant Secretary, Screening and Vetting Deputy Assistant Secretary, Law Enforcement Deputy Assistant Secretary, Countering Transnational Organized Crime Deputy Assistant Secretary, Counterterrorism and Threat Prevention Assistant Secretary for International Affairs Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, International Affairs Deputy Assistant Secretary, Western Hemisphere Assistant Secretary for Trade and Economic Security Deputy Assistant Secretary, Trade Policy Deputy Assistant Secretary, Economic Security Assistant Secretary for Cyber, Infrastructure, Risk, and Resilience Deputy Assistant Secretary, Cyber Policy Deputy Assistant Secretary, Infrastructure, Risk, and Resilience Deputy Assistant Secretary for Strategic Integration and Policy Planning
Office for State and Local Law Enforcement (OSLLE)
Office for State and Local Law Enforcement (OSLLE)
Component
Office for State and Local Law Enforcement (OSLLE)
Mission
Provides DHS with primary coordination, liaison, and advocacy for state, local, tribal, territorial, and campus (SLTTC) law enforcement.
Executives
Assistant Secretary for State and Local Law Enforcement: Heather Fong Deputy Assistant Secretary: N/A
Component
Mission
Executives
Subordinate Components
Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL)
Supports the Department's mission to secure the nation while preserving individual liberty, fairness, and equality under the law. Builds in civil rights and civil liberties practices into all of the Department’s activities.
Officer for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties: Shoba Sivaprasad Wadhia Deputy Officer for Programs & Compliance: Peter Mina Deputy Officer for EEO and Diversity: Veronica Venture
Programs and Compliance Division Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity Division Office for Accessible Systems and Technology (jointly run with DHS Office of the Chief Information Officer)
Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman (CISOMB)
Serves as a liaison between the public and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Helps individuals and employers resolve issues they are having with USCIS. Holds engagements to hear from the public about their experiences with USCIS. Identifies issues in the immigration system and make recommendations to USCIS on how to address these problems.
CIS Ombudsman: Nathan Stiefel (acting) Deputy Ombudsman: Nathan Stiefel
Policy Division Public Engagement Division Casework Division Operations Division Strategy Division
Climate Change Action Group
Drives urgent action to address the climate crisis. Analyzes, on an ongoing basis, the impacts of climate change on DHS missions, assets, and personnel. Adapts DHS operations, assets, and missions to account for the climate crisis via risk- based strategies. Coordinates DHS-wide sustainability operations to mitigate additional harm. Recommends specific, concrete steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Recommends specific, concrete steps to promote resilience and adaptation to reduce the multiple risks posed by the climate crisis. Recommends organizational and resource realignments as necessary to support the Department’s activities to address the climate crisis.
Co-Chairs: Cass Sunstein & Robert P. Silvers
Office of the Executive Secretary (ESEC)
Provides all manner of direct support to the Secretary of Homeland Security and Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security, as well as related support to leadership and management across the DHS. Accurate and timely dissemination of information and written communications.
Executive Secretary: Kimberly O'Connor
Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman (OIDO)
Assists individuals with complaints about the potential violation of immigration detention standards or other misconduct by DHS (or contract) personnel. Provides oversight of immigration detention facilities.
ID Ombudsman: David Gersten (acting) ID Deputy Ombudsman: N/A
Case Management Division Detention Oversight Division Policy and Standards Division External Relations Division Operations and Resource Management Division Program Integration Division
Family Reunification Task Force
Committed to the safe reunification of families that were unjustly separated at the U.S.-Mexico border.
Chair: Alejandro Mayorkas Executive Director: Michelle Brané
Includes the secretaries of Homeland Security, Health and Human Services, and State, as well as the Attorney General. It also includes several other officials from the DHS, DOJ, HHS, and State Department.
Office of the General Counsel (OGC)
Provides complete, accurate, and timely legal advice on possible courses of action for the DHS. Ensures that homeland security policies are implemented lawfully, quickly, and efficiently. Protects the rights and liberties of any Americans who come in contact with the Department of Homeland Security. Facilitates quick responses to congressional requests for information. Represents the department in venues across the country, including in U.S. immigration courts. The OGC accomplishes these tasks with over 3,000 attorneys.
General Counsel: Jonathan Meyer Deputy General Counsel: Joseph B. Maher CBP Chief Counsel: Frederick B. Smith CISA Chief Counsel: Spencer Fisher USCIS Chief Counsel: A. Ashley Tabaddor USCG Judge Advocate General: Melissa Bert FEMA Chief Counsel: Adrian Sevier FLETC Chief Counsel: Trisha Besselman (acting) ICE Principal Legal Advisor: Kerry Doyle USSS Chief Counsel: Thomas F. Huse TSA Chief Counsel: Francine Kerner
Ethics & Compliance Law Division General Law Division Immigration Law Division Intelligence Law Division Legal Counsel Division Operations and Enforcement Law Division Regulatory Affairs Law Division Technology Programs Law Division
Joint Requirements Council (JRC)
Validates capability gaps. Associated with operational requirements and proposed solution approaches to mitigate those gaps through the Joint Requirements Integration and Management System (JRIMS). Leverages opportunities for commonality to enhance operational effectiveness directly and better inform the DHS’ main investment pillars.
Executive Director: Joseph D. Wawro
The JRC consists of the Principals Council – the operational Components (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Federal Emergency Management Agency, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Secret Service, Transportation Security Administration, U.S. Coast Guard, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services), I&A, Management, CIO, Policy, and S&T.
Office of Legislative Affairs (OLA)
Serves as primary liaison to members of Congress and their staffs, the White House and Executive Branch, and to other federal agencies and governmental entities that have roles in assuring national security
Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs: Zephranie Buetow Deputy Assistant Secretary (Senate): Bryn McDonough Deputy Assistant Secretary (House of Representatives): Alexandra Carnes
Each area of responsibility is managed by a director. There's a DAS for the U.S. Senate, a DAS for the U.S. House of Representatives, and a Chief of Staff. Headquarters Operational Component Coordination Intelligence, Cyber, and Operations Oversight and Investigations Executive Secretary and Mission Support
Office of the Military Advisor
Provides counsel and support to the Secretary and Deputy Secretary in affairs relating to policy, procedures, preparedness activities, and operations between DHS and the U.S. Department of Defense.
Military Advisor to the Secretary: Rear Admiral Michael Platt
Office of Partnership and Engagement (OPE)
Coordinates the Department of Homeland Security’s outreach efforts with key stakeholders nationwide. Ensures a unified approach to external engagement amongst the DHS.
Assistant Secretary for Partnership and Engagement: Brenda F. Abdelall Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary: Rebecca Sternhell Deputy Assistant Secretary, Office of Intergovernmental Affairs: › miriam-enriquez-26176910b Miriam Enriquez Deputy Assistant Secretary, Private Sector Office: Jamie Lawrence
Office of Intergovernmental Affairs State and Local Affairs Tribal Government Affairs Private Sector Office Office of Academic Engagement Faith-Based Security Advisory Council Committee Management Office Homeland Security Advisory Council Office of Social Impact and Campaigns Director, Non-Governmental Organizations
Privacy Office
Protects individuals by embedding and enforcing privacy protections and transparency in all DHS activities.
Chief Privacy Officer: Mason C. Clutter (concurrently serves as the DHS Chief Freedom of Information Officer)
Senior Policy Advisor and Executive Director, Strategy and Integration Deputy Chief FOIA Officer Senior Director, FOIA Operations and Management Director of Disclosure Senior Director, Litigation, Appeals, and Policy Director, Policy, Oversight, Compliance Deputy Chief Privacy Officer Senior Director, Privacy Compliance Director, Privacy Compliance Senior Director, Privacy Policy and Oversight Director, Privacy Policy Director, Privacy Incidents Director, Privacy Oversight Chief of Staff Director, Business Operations Director, Communications & Training
Office of Public Affairs (OPA)
Coordinates the public affairs activities of all of the components and offices of the DHS. Serves as the federal government’s lead public information office during a national emergency or disaster.
Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs: Daniel Watson Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Communications: Luis Miranda Deputy Assistant Secretary for Media Relations: Sarah Schakow Deputy Assistant Secretary for Strategic Communications: Jeff Solnet
DHS Press Office Incident and Strategic Communications Multimedia Speechwriting Web Communications Internal Communications
Office of Strategy, Policy, and Plans (OSP&P)
Serves as a central resource to the Secretary and other department leaders for strategic planning and analysis, and facilitation of decision-making on the full breadth of issues that may arise across the dynamic homeland security enterprise
Under Secretary for Strategy, Policy, and Plans: Robert Silvers Deputy Under Secretary: Kelli Ann Burriesci
Chief of Staff Assistant Secretary for Border and Immigration Policy Deputy Assistant Secretary, Border and Immigration Deputy Assistant Secretary, Immigration Statistics Assistant Secretary for Counterterrorism and Threat Prevention Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, Counterterrorism and Threat Prevention Deputy Assistant Secretary, Screening and Vetting Deputy Assistant Secretary, Law Enforcement Deputy Assistant Secretary, Countering Transnational Organized Crime Deputy Assistant Secretary, Counterterrorism and Threat Prevention Assistant Secretary for International Affairs Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, International Affairs Deputy Assistant Secretary, Western Hemisphere Assistant Secretary for Trade and Economic Security Deputy Assistant Secretary, Trade Policy Deputy Assistant Secretary, Economic Security Assistant Secretary for Cyber, Infrastructure, Risk, and Resilience Deputy Assistant Secretary, Cyber Policy Deputy Assistant Secretary, Infrastructure, Risk, and Resilience Deputy Assistant Secretary for Strategic Integration and Policy Planning
Office for State and Local Law Enforcement (OSLLE)
Provides DHS with primary coordination, liaison, and advocacy for state, local, tribal, territorial, and campus (SLTTC) law enforcement.
Assistant Secretary for State and Local Law Enforcement: Heather Fong Deputy Assistant Secretary: N/A
· External links
Preceded byDoug Collinsas Secretary of Veterans Affairs
Preceded byDoug Collinsas Secretary of Veterans Affairs
U.S. order of precedence (ceremonial)
Preceded byDoug Collinsas Secretary of Veterans Affairs
U.S. order of precedence (ceremonial)
Order of precedence of the United Statesas Secretary of Homeland Security
U.S. order of precedence (ceremonial)
Succeeded bySusie Wilesas White House Chief of Staff
U.S. presidential line of succession
U.S. presidential line of succession
U.S. order of precedence (ceremonial)
U.S. presidential line of succession
Preceded bySecretary of Veterans AffairsDoug Collins
Preceded bySecretary of Veterans AffairsDoug Collins
U.S. order of precedence (ceremonial)
Preceded bySecretary of Veterans AffairsDoug Collins
U.S. order of precedence (ceremonial)
18th in line
U.S. order of precedence (ceremonial)
Last
order of precedence (ceremonial)
Preceded byDoug Collinsas Secretary of Veterans Affairs
Order of precedence of the United Statesas Secretary of Homeland Security
Succeeded bySusie Wilesas White House Chief of Staff
presidential line of succession
Preceded bySecretary of Veterans AffairsDoug Collins
18th in line
Last

References

  1. LII / Legal Information Institute
    https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/3/19
  2. Vox
    https://www.vox.com/2019/4/8/18299762/kevin-mcaleenan-claire-grady-acting-dhs-secretary
  3. National Journal
    https://www.nationaljournal.com/s/702570/inside-trumps-gambit-to-install-another-acting-dhs-secretary
  4. U.S. House of Representatives
    https://web.archive.org/web/20200821131952/https://oversight.house.gov/sites/democrats.oversight.house.gov/files/191115%20T%20Dodaro%20re%20Letter%20to%20GAO%20on%20Wolf-Cuccinelli%20Appointment.pdf
  5. Government Executive
    https://www.govexec.com/management/2019/11/top-democrats-call-emergency-review-dhs-appointments/161339/
  6. Roll Call
    https://web.archive.org/web/20191115233959/https://www.rollcall.com/news/legality-wolf-cuccinelli-dhs-appointments-questioned
  7. whitehouse.gov
    https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/the-press-office/2016/12/09/executive-order-amending-order-succession-department-homeland-security
  8. The New York Times
    https://www.nytimes.com/2004/12/16/us/mystery-woman-in-kerik-case-nanny.html?_r=0
  9. "Names already popping as possible Janet Napolitano replacements", by Kevin Robillard and Scott Wong, Politico, July 12,
    https://www.politico.com/story/2013/07/janet-napolitano-replacements-94094.html?ml=po_r
  10. "Obama would consider Ray Kelly to replace Janet Napolitano", by Jennifer Epstein, Politico, July 16, 2013, retrieved Ju
    https://www.politico.com/blogs/politico44/2013/07/obama-would-consider-ray-kelly-to-replace-janet-napolitano-168507.html
  11. "Muslims Oppose Raymond Kelly Bid For Homeland Security Secretary", by Omar Sacirbey, Huffington Post, August 1, 2013, r
    http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/01/muslims-oppose-raymond-kelly-homeland-security_n_3691876.html
  12. "Ray Kelly: The NYPD: Guilty of Saving 7,383 Lives", by Ray Kelly, Opinion: The Wall Street Journal, July 22, 2013, retr
    https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424127887324448104578616333588719320
  13. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/office-secretary
  14. "Kristi Noem dodges kicks from migrant suspect as she leads ICE deportation raids in Phoenix"
    https://nypost.com/2025/04/08/us-news/kristi-noem-dodges-kicks-from-migrant-suspect-as-she-leads-ice-deportation-raids-in-phoenix/
  15. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/office-civil-rights-and-civil-liberties
  16. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/topics/cis-ombudsman
  17. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/climate-change-action-group
  18. Greene County Democrat
    https://greenecodemocrat.com/tag/dhs-climate-change-action-group-ccag/
  19. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/office-executive-secretary
  20. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/leadership
  21. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/office-immigration-detention-ombudsman
  22. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/family-reunification-task-force
  23. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/office-general-counsel
  24. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/joint-requirements-council
  25. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/about-office-legislative-affairs
  26. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/about-office-military-advisor
  27. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/partnership-engagement
  28. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/privacy-office
  29. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/office-public-affairs
  30. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/office-strategy-policy-plans
  31. www.dhs.gov
    https://www.dhs.gov/office-state-and-local-law-enforcement
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