Former TSA Administrator Pistole Announced His Departure Over Three Months Ago

U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-SD) (pictured) and Bill Nelson (D-FL), the chairman and ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, along with subcommittee leaders Sens. Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), and Deb Fischer (R-NE) have urged President Barack Obama to, “prioritize the formal nomination of a qualified, experienced, and dedicated individual to serve as Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).” Their letter comes more than three months after former TSA Administrator John Pistole announced his departure on Oct. 16, 2014. Pistole served his last day at the agency on Dec. 31, 2014. 

The Senate Commerce Committee shares jurisdiction with the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs over nominations for TSA Administrator, which requires Senate confirmation.  In 2014, the TSA screened more than 650 million passengers, nearly 1.8 million every day.  This total represents almost 15 million more passengers than in 2013.
 
"Our nation faces evolving terror threats that have recently resulted in enhanced TSA security screening and procedures at U.S. airports," the senators said in the letter. "In addition, Secretary Johnson has directed TSA to conduct an immediate, short term review to determine if additional action is necessary. Given this intensified terror threat and the vacancy set into motion when former Administrator Pistole announced his plans to retire over three months ago, it is critical that TSA have strong leadership now to set priorities, make tough decisions, and manage its large workforce."

FMI: www.commerce.senate.gov