Trump Taps Hillsborough County Sheriff To Lead Drug Enforcement Administration

TAMPA, FL — President-elect Donald Trump on Saturday nominated Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister for administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration, according to a post on his Truth Social account.

In his post, Trump said he was pleased to nominate Chronister and highlighted his accomplishments in his 32-year career, saying he has served the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s office, and received countless commendations and awards "for keeping his community safe."

Chronister is "a proud graduate" of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's National Academy's 260th Session, Trump said.

He also serves as co-chairman of the Regional Domestic Security Task Force for Region IV Tampa Bay, a council member of the Florida Attorney General’s statewide council on human trafficking, and chairman of the criminal justice sub-committee, as well as vice-chairman of the Hillsborough County Public Safety Coordinating Council.

Chronister also serves as the vice-chairman of the Hillsborough County Public Schools Citizen Oversight Committee.

Chronister has served as sheriff since 2017, according to his biography on his office's website.

"As DEA administrator, Chad will work with our great attorney general, Pam Bondi, to secure the border, stop the flow of Fentanyl, and other illegal drugs, across the southern border, and save lives," he added.

"Congratulations to Chad, his wife, Nikki, and two wonderful sons," Trump concluded.

He also announced Saturday a nomination for Kashyap Patel as incoming director of the FBI.