|
Bush picks architect of patriot act { January 12 2005 } Original Source Link: (May no longer be active)
http://www.thedesertsun.com/news/stories2004/national/20050112000927.shtmlhttp://www.thedesertsun.com/news/stories2004/national/20050112000927.shtml
Bush pick to replace Ridge: Patriot Act architect Chertoff
Former Whitewater investigator wins praise from both sides of aisle
USA TODAY
January 12th, 2005
WASHINGTON -- President Bush filled a gaping hole in his second-term Cabinet on Tuesday by naming Michael Chertoff, a federal judge who helped develop the government’s aggressive response to the Sept. 11 attacks, to run the Department of Homeland Security.
Chertoff, 51, who serves on the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia, ran the Justice Department’s criminal division from 2001-03. He played a major role in developing the controversial USA Patriot Act, which gave the government increased law enforcement and surveillance powers to fight terrorism.
"Mike has shown a deep commitment to the cause of justice and an unwavering determination to protect the American people," said Bush, who called him "a key leader in the war on terror."
With Chertoff’s nomination, Bush completed naming his second-term Cabinet. He still must select a director of national intelligence, a newly created post.
Chertoff is expected to win easy confirmation in the Senate, where he has been confirmed to three posts. As Homeland Security secretary, Chertoff said he would "devote all my energy to promoting our homeland security and, as important, to preserving our fundamental liberties."
The surprise pick came a month after Bush’s first choice, former New York City police commissioner Bernard Kerik, withdrew. Kerik cited his failure to pay all required taxes for a nanny who may have been in the country illegally.
Democrats and Republicans praised Chertoff. Sen. Jon Corzine, D-N.J., called him "one of the most able people and public servants I have ever known."
As chief counsel to the Senate Whitewater Committee from 1994-96, Chertoff earned a reputation as a tough investigator of President Clinton’s Arkansas business dealings. No charges were ever filed against the president or Hillary Clinton, now a senator from New York.
If confirmed, Chertoff will replace Tom Ridge. Under Ridge, Homeland Security has won accolades for some of its efforts on aviation security. But serious challenges remain, particularly in securing the nation’s porous borders and busy commercial ports.
Some homeland security experts questioned Chertoff’s credentials. "What they really needed was someone with tremendous management experience," said consultant Randall Larsen.
|
|
