Today, President Obama appointed Howard A. Schmidt as the new Cyber Coordinator.  Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke released the following statement:

“In October, I sent a letter to President Obama urging him to appoint a cyber coordinator as soon as possible.  I commend the President for naming Howard A. Schmidt as the new Cyber Coordinator.  Mr. Schmidt has the right mix of private and public sector experience to excel at this very challenging and critical position.  His distinguished and diverse career has spanned over 40 years in law enforcement, defense, and corporate security.  Mr. Schmidt brings to the position his expertise in IT security, cybercrime, critical infrastructure protection and private sector risks related to cyber security.  I am pleased that the President was personally involved in the selection of Mr. Schmidt, and that he will have regular and direct access to the President for cybersecurity issues.  By appointing Mr. Schmidt, the president has sent a clear message to the American people that he is committed to protecting and strengthening our cyber posture.

“As Chairwoman of the House Committee on Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emerging Threats, Cybersecurity and Science and Technology, I look forward to working with Coordinator Schmidt as well as public and private sector cyber stakeholders to encourage the development and implementation cyber security standards, practices, and technologies that enhance our nation’s security,” concluded Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke.