Remarks on the Resignation of Homeland Security Adviser, Frances Townsend

November 19, 2007 -- In a statement issued by the White House this morning, President Bush commented on the resignation of Frances Townsend, "Over the past four and a half years, Fran Townsend has served my Administration with distinction as Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism. Fran has always provided wise counsel on how to best protect the American people from the threat of terrorism. She has been a steady leader in the effort to prevent and disrupt attacks and to better respond to natural disasters."

He further stated, "With her extensive experience, intellect and candor, Fran has ably guided the Homeland Security Council. She has played an integral role in the formation of the key strategies and policies my Administration has used to combat terror and protect Americans."

Department of Homeland Security press release, Secretary Chertoff also offered his remarks, stating, "Fran Townsend has been a remarkable public servant for the past two decades. And, as a former federal prosecutor, Coast Guard Assistant Commandant for Intelligence, and most recently as Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism, she understands from the ground up the security challenges that the nation faces every day."

"Fran was a major architect of our national homeland security strategies, including the “lessons learned” from Hurricane Katrina. She has championed counterterrorism and information sharing, leading the effort to better integrate federal, state and local intelligence, law enforcement, and first responder communities and thwart the efforts of those who wish to do us harm. Fran has also contributed mightily to the maturation of the Department, and has influenced countless stakeholders and leaders throughout the U.S. government and the world to further our preparedness and planning efforts for both natural and manmade disasters."