Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey appoints new state Homeland Security director

PHOENIX – Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey on Tuesday named a new state Homeland Security director and moved cybersecurity operations into the department.

Ducey selected Tim Roemer, Arizona’s chief information security officer, to succeed Gil Orrantia, who retired after more than a decade on the job.

“Cybersecurity is homeland security — that’s why I’m looking forward to moving Arizona’s critical cyber mission to the Department of Homeland Security,” Ducey said in a press release.

“Tim Roemer has served our state for years with protection and proactiveness at top of mind, and I’m confident he will lead the department and its new cybersecurity operations well.”

Roemer worked with the Arizona Secretary of State’s Office to help protect the 2020 election, according to the release.

In a tweet, Secretary of State Katie Hobbs called Roemer “a great public servant” and said Tuesday’s appointment was “well-deserved.”

In his previous position, which he started in July 2019, Roemer oversaw the state’s cybersecurity operations while it was under the Arizona Department of Administration.

“Arizona’s leadership in cybersecurity and the transition to Homeland Security is a culmination of years of hard work to improve preparedness, enhance efficiencies, and ensure our information is secure,” Roemer said in the release.

“I’m thrilled to continue serving Arizonans, and I’m grateful to Gov. Ducey for entrusting me with this leadership role and the state’s cybersecurity operations.”

Orrantia, who was appointed Homeland Security director by former Gov. Jan Brewer in 2009, informed Ducey of his intention to retire on March 2 and officially stepped down April 2.

Roemer’s appointment was effective immediately.

“I’m grateful to former Director Orrantia for his tireless commitment to protecting Arizonans and supporting law enforcement, and I wish him the best in his retirement,” Ducey said.

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