Overview
- Thomas Fugate was tapped in May to head the Department of Homeland Security’s Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships after Army veteran William Braniff resigned over staffing cuts.
- A ProPublica investigation published June 4 found that Fugate’s résumé includes only landscaping and grocery clerk work and no background in counterterrorism.
- Sen. Chris Murphy publicly criticized the appointment on June 22, highlighting concerns as major cities brace for potential terrorist strikes from Iran.
- The CP3 division oversees an $18 million grant program designed to prevent hate-fueled violence and targeted attacks across the country.
- Critics contend that Fugate’s selection reflects political loyalty rather than professional expertise amid broader DHS downsizing.