Bernie Kerik’s withdrawal was apparently caused at least in part by a “nanny problem.” However, while I think he was a great choice for the post, I can’t agree with those who consider the nanny problem a trivial issue, at least for the post of Homeland Security director. Here is what Kerik said:
I uncovered information that now leads me to question the immigration status of a person who had been in my employ as a housekeeper and nanny. It has also been brought to my attention that for a period of time during such employment required tax payments and related filings had not been made.
The new Homeland Security director will have to take a hard look at immigration issues, and, I hope, will need to participate in what some people consider to be hard decisions about immigration issues. In this context, a “nanny problem” constitutes baggage that is not unimportant.
I hope the administration will come up with a replacement who, like Kerik, has a background in law enforcement and security rather than management.
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