Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen M. Nielsen announced today that the Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security Elaine C. Duke is retiring this spring.
“Today, Deputy Secretary Duke announced that she will retire from government service in April. Elaine has selflessly served the federal government for three decades, and this department for more than 10 years spanning multiple secretaries, Nielsen said in a statement. “Since taking office, she has been instrumental in helping the department address emerging threats and in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from the 2017 hurricane season.”
“The department greatly benefited from her expert knowledge and understanding of DHS issues – particularly with respect to procurement, personnel and management. I wish Elaine and her family all the best in her retirement, and I look forward to her remaining an active supporter of you, the men and women of DHS.”
Speculation around Duke’s retirement has been circulating for months. Duke was known throughout the department and industry as a pragmatic leader who got things done, cared about the people and management in the department and was a strong advocate of good government and good governance. DHS has lost an incredibly talented leader with a deep understanding of the department.
Deputy Secretary Duke was confirmed by the Senate on April 4, 2017, and sworn in as the seventh Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security on April 8, 2017. She served as the Acting Secretary from July 31, 2017, to December 6, 2017.
