Thompson to DHS: Was Rev. Johnson Vetted? Did DHS Know His Racist Past?
(WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, sent a letter to Acting Homeland Security Secretary Elaine Duke regarding the appointment and subsequent resignation of Jamie Johnson as Director of DHS’ Center for Faith-Based & Neighborhood Partnerships. He resigned last night after news reports surfaced exposing a history of racist and Islamophobic public on radio appearances as recent as last year. After Johnson’s comments were made public, DHS subsequently praised his work.
In the letter to DHS, Congressman Thompson requests more information on the Department’s vetting process and the Department’s knowledge of Johnson’s past.
Letter excerpt:
Though Rev. Jamie Johnson resigned last night, I am appalled that he was appointed to lead the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partner-ships despite making racist, prejudiced statements about African Americans and Muslims on radio broadcasts as recently as last year. His appointment calls into question DHS's vetting process for key positions and undermines the Department's ability to work with people of color and religious groups on homeland security matters.
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Media contact: Adam Comis at (202) 225-9978
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