CNS News - Bush Taps New Homeland Security Director

By Susan Jones
CNSNews.com Morning Editor
January 11, 2005

(CNSNews.com) - President Bush on Tuesday nominated Michael Chertoff, the man who helped prosecute terrorists as chief of the Justice Department's criminal division, as the new homeland security director.

President Bush described Chertoff as a talented and experienced public servant and a key leader in the war on terror.

"In the days after Sept. 11 Mike helped trace the terrorist attacks to the al Qaeda network," President Bush said. "He understood immediately that the strategy in the war on terror is to prevent attacks before they occur."

Bush praised Chertoff's "energy and intellect," which have "put him at the center of many vital homeland security improvements, especially increased information-sharing within the FBI and with state and local officials."

Bush also noted that Chertoff has been confirmed by the Senate on three different occasions.

Chertoff currently sits on the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia. President Bush appointed him to the federal bench almost two years ago.

If the Senate approves his latest appointment, Chertoff will replace the Tom Ridge at the Homeland Security Department.

President Bush's first choice for the job, former New York City Police Commissioner Bernard Kerik, dropped his name from consideration following damaging revelations about his personal life.

'Wise choice'

A conservative civil liberties group said it is pleased with President Bush's nomination of Chertoff.

"Judge Michael Chertoff is a wise choice to lead the Department of Homeland Security during these dangerous times," said Jay Sekulow, chief counsel of the American Center for Law and Justice. (Sekulow worked with Chertoff during Chertoff's time at the Justice Department.)

"Judge Chertoff is a well-respected prosecutor and federal appeals court judge," Sekulow said in a press release. "His dedication to upholding the constitution and the rule of law is a critical component as the nation moves forward in this war on terrorism.

"During his work at the Department of Justice, Judge Chertoff exhibited a tenacious commitment to disrupt terrorism networks and to bring to justice terrorism suspects, while at the same time protecting the civil liberties of all Americans.

"He understands the challenges ahead and is aptly equipped to protect this nation. He will make an exceptional Secretary of Homeland Security."

The Washington, D.C.-based American Center for Law and Justice supports the Bush administration's anti-terrorism policies and often files legal briefs in support of those policies in court.