Secretary Padilla Responds to DHS Designation of Election Systems as Critical Infrastructure

SACRAMENTO, CA - Secretary of State Alex Padilla released the following statement in response to Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson’s designation of election systems as critical infrastructure:

“Election integrity and security is of the utmost importance to all Americans. While I welcome partnerships that enhance the security of our elections, the designation by the Department of Homeland Security of elections as critical infrastructure raises important questions. And while I understand the benefits and limits of the critical infrastructure designation as explained by Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson, it is unclear if the incoming administration will abide by Secretary Johnson’s definition of limits. I urge the United States Senate to explore this topic in upcoming confirmation hearings for Department of Homeland Security nominee Gen. John Kelly. Further, I anticipate that the impact of this designation will also be on the agenda at next month's meeting of the National Association of Secretaries of State conference in Washington, DC.” 

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