Governor-elect Mike Pence announced Thursday he will make a leadership change at the state Department of Homeland Security. It’s the first Pence-appointee who comes from outside the Daniels administration.
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security’s new director will be John Hill, replacing current director Joe Wainscott. Hill was previously the administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration as well as a former member of the Indiana State Police. Pence said he’s grateful for Wainscott’s service but adds bringing in Hill was a unique opportunity.
“To have someone who has not only built a distinguished career as a trooper and a leader in the Indiana State Police and understands what our first responders deal with who are often the first on the scene but also has worked at the national level and understands the interrelationship of federal agencies and the resources that are available at the federal level simply made him the right choice,” said Pence.
Pence also announced that Major General Martin Umbarger will continue to lead the Indiana National Guard and that Indiana Department of Transportation Commissioner Michael Cline will remain in his position.