Statement By Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff On The Resignation Of The White House Liaison

Release Date: August 10, 2007

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
Contact: 202-282-8010

Eric Leckey has announced his resignation as Advisor to the Secretary and White House Liaison at the Department of Homeland Security, effective Friday, August 24. I have continually relied on Eric for trusted advice and sound analysis. Eric has ably served as a member of my team since May of 2005 leading the process to recruit the Department's senior leadership and capably managing our most sensitive non-career personnel matters. The department's senior leadership team will miss Eric's steady and indispensable advice as he constantly worked to build a stronger and more integrated department.

Eric has served the President since 2002, first in the Office of the Secretary of Education and then at the White House on the Homeland Security Council staff as Deputy Executive Secretary. He also served as Acting Executive Secretary where he assisted with the implementation of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, including the creation and stand-up of the Department of Homeland Security.

I am grateful for Eric's service and dedication to the American people and thank him for his lasting contributions to our security. I will miss Eric and wish him well. I look forward to our continued friendship.

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This page was last modified on August 10, 2007