Thomas Massie, conservative commentators vocally oppose Trump’s DEA nominee
Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., and several conservative figures have raised concerns about President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister to serve as the administrator of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Massie specifically criticized the nomination, citing Chronister’s involvement in the arrest of Pastor Rodney Howard-Browne during the COVID-19 lockdowns.
In March 2020, Pastor Howard-Browne was arrested for defying state and local public health orders related to the pandemic. Sheriff Chronister announced the arrest and stated that Howard-Browne’s actions put his congregation and the community at risk. However, the charges against Howard-Browne were later dropped, and the State Attorney’s Office acknowledged that criminal punishment was not necessary in this instance.
In response to Chronister’s nomination, Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, emphasized the importance of discretion and constitutional protections, regardless of political party affiliation. Conservative commentator Liz Wheeler criticized Chronister as a “COVID tyrant” and called for Trump to withdraw the nomination. Sean Davis, CEO of The Federalist, also expressed opposition to Chronister’s nomination, characterizing him as a “left-wing clown” unfit to lead the DEA.
Despite the criticism, Pastor Howard-Browne voiced support for Chronister, highlighting their friendship and the sheriff’s growth from past experiences. Howard-Browne endorsed Chronister’s vision, resolve, and leadership qualities, endorsing him as the ideal candidate to lead the DEA.
In a public statement, Chronister expressed gratitude for the nomination and stated his commitment to serving the nation as the DEA Administrator. Fox News Digital reached out to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office for comment on the matter.
As the debate over Chronister’s nomination continues, it remains to be seen how the appointment will proceed and whether concerns raised by Massie, Roy, Wheeler, Davis, and others will impact the decision-making process. The controversy surrounding Chronister’s past actions underscores the importance of thorough scrutiny and consideration in the selection of key government officials.
