WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, met with Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen to discuss Michigan’s top homeland security needs. Peters released the following statement on the meeting:
“As Ranking Member of the Homeland Security Committee, I’m focused on addressing Michigan’s unique homeland security needs to keep our communities safe and ensure our state can continue to be a hub for international commerce.
“Today, I met with Secretary Nielsen to discuss prioritizing security at our Northern Border. I pressed Secretary Nielsen to fulfill a commitment to fully staff the Gordie Howe Bridge and the Blue Water customs plazas – two of our nation’s busiest border crossings – to facilitate the secure movement of trade and prevent illegal drugs from entering our country. I also stressed the importance of cooperation between the Department and Michigan’s ports – most critically the Port of Monroe – to facilitate a strong maritime economy. We also discussed the cybersecurity challenges facing Michigan and the nation – from the need to train additional cybersecurity experts to protecting small businesses and the weakest links in our supply chain and strengthening the security of our election infrastructure.
“Finally, I expressed my serious concerns to Secretary Nielsen that DHS’ policy priorities have not always been in line with the most serious threats we face, and have not reflected the core values of our nation. The Department has not done enough to combat the rise of extremism and the evolving threat to vibrant religious communities in Michigan and around the country. I made it clear, especially in the wake of Pittsburgh, Kentucky, Charleston and other attacks, that I expect more dedication to these significant and ongoing threats from one of our nation’s most critical law enforcement and national security agencies.”
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