August 19, 2002

Immigration and Naturalization Service Commissioner James Ziglar Resigns

On August 16, 2002, the Immigration and Naturalization Service Commissioner, James Ziglar resigned from his position as head of the agency. He had assumed this position just one year ago, on August 6, 2001. In a letter to the White House, Mr. Ziglar wrote: “Although I could not have imagined the events of September 11 and the dramatic changes visited upon the Immigration and Naturalization Service, I have done my best to continue making progress toward the goals of restructuring the agency and reducing backlogs while responding to the call to arms in the war on terrorism." It is reported that Mr. Ziglar will continue in his position as Commissioner until the Homeland Security Bill is passed by Congress, and he expects to leave the agency in the fall, though he is willing to remain until the end of the year if necessary.