Welcome to the subcommittees first hearing on the fiscal year 2018 president ial budget request. Id like to extend a special welcome to todays witness, secretary john kelly. Mr. Secretary, we are very pleased you answered the president s call to lead dhs. Having someone with your credentials to lead this department will strengthen it and enrich it. It is good to begin the fy18 appropriations cycle, despite its late start, im confident this subcommittee will produce a bill that supports the departments mission, balances competing interests, and is affordable to the american taxpayers. Before i dive into the numbers, mr. Secretary, i have a couple of pieces of advice. First, never lose focus on the departments highest priority, to keep the nation safe and enforce the laws of the United States. With your reputation, i know you will do that. Second, stay in touch with me, with mrs. Roybalallard and let us know when you need help. Everyone on this subcommittee wants dhs to be successful mee