CNSI Statement on the Passing of Stewart Baker

CONTACT: Anna Nix Kumar
akumar@monumentadvocacy.com

WASHINGTON – The Council on National Security and Immigration (CNSI), a group of American national security leaders who believe immigration reforms are imperative to bolster and maintain the United States’ global leadership in the 21st century, issued the following statement following the passing of former national and homeland security leader Stewart Baker:

“Nearly all of the CNSI leaders worked with Stewart Baker over many decades during his lengthy and consequential service to the United States. After senior positions at the Department of Education and the National Security Agency, Stewart served as the first full-department Assistant Secretary of Policy at the Department of Homeland Security from 2005-2009. Stewart’s energy, creativity and commitment to public service were critical in those early days of the Department – shaping many homeland security and cybersecurity policy debates. Stewart was also integral in deploying sophisticated border security, improving identity management, negotiating international law enforcement and vetting agreements and played a leading role in the Bush Administration’s efforts to enact comprehensive immigration reform.

“Following his government service, Stewart continued to lead important discussions about our nation’s security as a partner at a law firm and as a frequent commentator and expert on official national security panels and informal channels including his own ‘Cyberlaw Podcast.’ Much of cybersecurity law today has been shaped by Stewart's contributions over his career.

“Beyond his resume, he was a mentor to many and shaped careers with his encouragement and boundless optimism in the possibilities of public service. His sharp wit and piercing intellect were a joyful part of a challenging field of law and policy. When Stewart spoke, everybody listened, whether a foreign official, a Member of Congress, a colleague or a journalist - he commanded the room with intellect, humor and persuasion.

“The leaders at CNSI send their condolences to Stewart’s family and friends and hope that the remembrance of his life will be an inspiration to generations to follow.”

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Leaders of CNSI speak and act solely in their individual capacities, and their views should not be attributed to any organization with which they are affiliated.

About CNSI: The Council on National Security and Immigration is a group of American national security leaders who believe immigration reforms are imperative to bolster and maintain the United States’ global leadership in the 21st century. Find out more here: www.cnsiusa.org