December 12, 2016–President-elect Donald J. Trump today announced he would nominate retired Marine Gen. John F. Kelly as Homeland Security secretary.  Mr. Kelly, who retired from the Marines last January, was commander of the U.S. Southern Command, in charge of military operations in Latin America.  “Gen. John Kelly’s decades of military service and deep commitment to fighting the threat of terrorism inside our borders makes him the ideal choice to serve as our Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security,” Mr. Trump said in a statement.  Republican lawmakers praised the choice.  “John Kelly is an inspired choice to lead the Department of Homeland Security.  His leadership, operational experience and expertise in Western Hemisphere affairs will position him well to lead his department at a critical time,” said Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R., Ky.).  Added Rep. Michael McCaul (R., Texas), chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee:  “I am confident he will serve our country well as the next secretary of Homeland Security.  At a time when we face grave danger from terrorists to cyber criminals, it is imperative we have a steady, decisive secretary at the helm.”