Sec. Kemp Comments on Completion of OIG Investigation into DHS Scans

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Tuesday, June 27th, 2017

“Last year, the firewall protecting Georgia’s voter registration database was targeted by an IP address associated with the Obama Administration’s Department of Homeland Security. Following its detection, I demanded answers from DHS Secretary Jeh Johnson, but I was ignored. After other states detected and reported similar issues, Secretary Johnson attempted to explain the situation away, but I was unsatisfied with his unforthcoming explanation and asked President-Elect Trump to investigate the matter after his inauguration. He immediately obliged.

“I personally spoke with current DHS Secretary John Kelly and learned that the investigation is now complete. DHS did not knowingly attempt to breach Georgia’s firewall or hack our systems. Federal officials were able to recreate the event, and they have promised to provide a detailed report for my review.

“While I am disappointed that it took a new administration to investigate this highly important incident, I am pleased to learn this information and relieved that our federal government is not trying to interfere with elections in our state or others involved in this situation. 

“I am grateful for President Trump’s leadership on this matter, and we appreciate Secretary Kelly’s and the Inspector General’s efforts. With the investigation now complete, we will continue to work diligently to ensure that elections in Georgia remain secure, accessible, and fair.”