Mon, Jul 06, 2009

Tucson Region

Napolitano's accolades are bipartisan

Tucson, Arizona | Published: 12.02.2008
What people are saying about Gov. Janet Napolitano's nomination as secretary of homeland security:
"It really puts a pair of border-related eyes on Homeland Security. Governor Napolitano understands . . . what kind of problems we have and brings a great perspective to the Department of Homeland Security."
— Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard, a Democrat
"She has a tremendous intellect and possesses the leadership and sound judgment needed to make the difficult decisions that this job presents."
— Current Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff
"I think she's eminently qualified, but I also think she was eminently qualified to be governor of Arizona, and I would have preferred to see her continue to deal with issues here rather than on the federal level."
— State Rep. Steve Farley, D-Tucson
As governor of a border state, Napolitano "understands the importance of developing policies that will not impede legitimate travel and trade but will keep our enemies out."
— U.S. Sen. Susan Collins of Maine, the ranking Republican on the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee
"One of the few areas where Governor Napolitano and I have agreed is that Washington has not done its job when it comes to securing our borders and protecting our nation. Now the governor will get the opportunity to either fix a bad situation or become part of the problem. I honestly wish her well."
— Randy Pullen, chairman of the Arizona Republican Party
"The nomination is certainly deserved for you and certainly an honor for the state of Arizona. I wish you Godspeed in your stewardship of this vital agency."
— Secretary of State Jan Brewer, the Republican who will become governor when Napolitano resigns
"I agree with (Sen. John) McCain — it's better to have someone in that role who understands Arizona."
— State Rep. Jonathan Paton, R-Tucson
"President-elect Barack Obama could not have picked a better secretary of homeland security than Janet Napolitano. . . . For Arizonans, of course, Governor Napolitano's nomination is a mixed blessing. Should she be confirmed — and I have no doubt she will — we will lose a truly great governor."
— U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D-Ariz.
— Compiled by Daniel Scarpinato, Arizona Daily Star; and Howard Fischer, Capital Media Services