Homeland Security Vacancies Must Be Addressed (Rep. Bennie Thompson)

As of May 1, 2007, 138 (24%) of the top 575 positions in the Department of Homeland Security were vacant – with some offices almost half vacate. This gaping hole in Department management may widen as the Bush Administration draws to a close because a considerable proportion of those now in these positions of leadership are political appointees. With an election coming, many will soon exit, possibly without ensuring the continuity of DHS operations. This is not a new issue. It has been a systemic problem within DHS for years and affects everything from national security to employee morale. What’s worse than a Homeland Security organization with poor leadership is a homeland security organization with no leadership. A widening vacancy gap would increase U.S. vulnerability to terrorist attacks and natural disasters. This is a homeland security issue that must be addressed and rectified immediately.