Obama’s DHS pick a major Democratic donor, senators question credentials

President Obama’s newly nominated pick to lead the sprawling Department of Homeland Security is a major Democratic donor who used to work with the president’s 2008 campaign, leading one senator to call the choice “deeply concerning.”

The president nominated former Pentagon lawyer Jeh Johnson on Friday afternoon.

Obama described Johnson as a tested leader with deep experience in the top tiers of government, with a vital focus on national security. “Jeh has a deep understanding of the threats and challenges facing the United States,” he said.

The White House touted Johnson’s experience, as general counsel at the Defense Department during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. A White House official called Johnson “one the most highly qualified and respected national security leaders.” He served during Obama’s first term.

In brief remarks from the Rose Garden, Johnson said he is committed to “safeguarding our nation’s national and homeland security.”

But his background, aside from being a trusted legal adviser helping oversee those two wars, is also that of a big-money Democratic donor.

“It would appear that the president plans to nominate a loyalist and fundraiser to this post,” Sen. Jeff Sessions, R-Ala., said in a statement. “This is deeply concerning. This huge department must have a proven manager with strong relevant law enforcement experience, recognized independence and integrity, who can restore this department to its full capability.”

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