The federal agency charged with protecting U.S. infrastructure — including its computer networks — has hired Daniel Kroese, the chief of staff for Republican Rep. John Ratcliffe, as a senior adviser. The National Protection and Programs Directorate (NPPD), part of the Department of Homeland Security, brings on Kroese as the Trump administration and Congress are seeking to harden U.S. cybersecurity, including its elections systems. Kroese, who announced the hire in an email to colleagues, will arrive at NPPD with close contacts throughout Congress. The move follows NPPD’s addition of Matthew Masterson, the former chairman of the Election Assistance Commission (EAC), as another senior adviser. Masterson’s role is focused on election security. It’s not clear yet what Kroese will specialize in at NPPD.
“After a remarkable 4+ years, today will be my last day working for Congressman John Ratcliffe,” Kroese said in an email to colleagues. “I will soon be starting as Senior Advisor at DHS’ cybersecurity agency (NPPD) where I look forward to continuing work in this important issue area.”
Ratcliffe, R-Texas, is one of the most active lawmakers when it comes to introducing cybersecurity-related legislation. Kroese was instrumental in these efforts over the last several years. Ratcliffe is a member of the Homeland Security Committee’s subcommittee on cybersecurity, as well as the Judiciary Committee’s subcommittee on homeland security.
Full Article: DHS security unit makes another big hire from elsewhere in government.