Julie L. Myers, Assistant Secretary, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has this new and powerful law enforcement agency performing the way Congress envisioned when it was created almost five years ago. Under her leadership, worksite enforcement arrests have quadrupled, gang members and child predators are being apprehended in record numbers, deportations are at an all time high, and the number of fugitive alien operations teams are growingly dramatically. I want to personally thank Chairmen Lieberman and Leahy, Ranking Members Collins and Specter and their committees, as well as Majority Leader Reid, for their recognition of the performance of the men and women of ICE during Julie's tenure.
Dr. Jeffrey W. Runge, MD, Chief Medical Officer and Assistant Secretary for the Office of Health Affairs, has been key in coordinating federal efforts in the areas of bio-defense and medical planning and preparedness. I have relied heavily on Jeff's experience and intellect for more than two years on the most pressing health and public safety issues facing the American public.
Ross Ashley, Assistant Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), brings important energy and ideas to a new FEMA, and will further strengthen the agency's ability to effectively and efficiently prepare for and respond to emergencies and natural disasters.
I congratulate each of them on their confirmation and look forward to their ongoing service to the homeland.
