Former President Donald Trump has announced his nomination of Terry Cole to head the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Cole, boasting an extensive background in law enforcement, currently serves as Virginia's Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security. He oversees 11 state public safety agencies, comprising over 19,000 employees.

Cole's history with the DEA is substantial, having spent over two decades with the agency. His experience includes deployments to Colombia, Afghanistan, and Mexico City, as well as a key role as the DEA's representative to the National Security Council. He also held the positions of Chief of Staff and Executive Officer at the DEA's Department of Justice Special Operations Division.

Trump expressed his confidence in Cole's ability to address the nation's drug challenges and enhance public safety. Cole's academic credentials include a degree from the Rochester Institute of Technology and certificates from the University of Virginia and the University of Notre Dame.

This nomination follows the withdrawal of Florida Sheriff Chad Chronister, Trump's initial choice for the DEA administrator role. Chronister cited local commitments as his reason for declining the nomination. The DEA's collaboration with Homeland Security and ICE is anticipated to be crucial in fulfilling Trump's border security agenda, which includes increased deportations of individuals residing in the country illegally and accused of criminal activity.