Torres Small and Watson Coleman Host Virtual Forum on DHS Preparedness During COVID-19 with Former DHS Deputy Secretary Elaine Duke

Las Cruces, N.M. – Yesterday, Reps. Xochitl Torres Small (D-NM) and Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ) hosted a virtual forum to discuss how the current public health emergency will impact the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) ability to carry out its missions once normal government operations are resumed. The Members of the Committee on Homeland Security’s Oversight, Management, and Accountability (OMA) Subcommittee were joined by Former Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security Elaine Duke. 

“In the face of COVID-19, many within DHS are part of our essential workforce—serving every day to protect our country from ongoing threats, like hurricanes and drug trafficking. As we fight this virus, we must also assure that DHS personnel have the resources they need to do their jobs, both during and after this crisis. That’s why it’s crucial we learn from these challenges to support continuity of operation plans moving forward. I greatly appreciate former DHS Deputy Secretary Duke for sharing her valuable insight and vast experience, as the Department prepares to continue its mission in an ever-changing environment,” said Torres Small, Chairwoman of Homeland Security Committee’s OMA Subcommittee. 

A livestream recording of the event can be found here. 

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