Nielsen delivers State of Homeland Security address

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kirstjen M. Nielsen delivered Monday the 2019 State of Homeland Security Address, which included operational challenges, the ever-changing security landscape and the department’s strategic plan.

The address also included the department’s major successes since the last address, the steps DHS is taking to identify and adapt to emerging threats, cybersecurity, and the ongoing humanitarian and security crisis at the U.S. southern border.

Department successes include thwarted terrorist plots and helping bring potentially dangerous individuals to justice, launched efforts to block terrorists and criminals from reaching the United States, and responded to natural disasters by helping Americans rebuild, according to the agencies.

“There is no room in this great nation for violent groups who intimidate or coerce Americans because of their race, religion, sex or creed,” Nielsen said. “We have worked with social media companies to crack down on terrorist propaganda online. And we have ramped up soft-target security nationwide, with a particular focus on protecting schools, large events, major gatherings, and places of worship.”

After the address, McCray Institute Director Frank J. Cilluffo moderated a question-and-answer session.

Nielsen’s address was hosted by the Auburn University McCray Institute for Cyber and Critical Infrastructure Security and George Washington University.