Hochul Taps Insider Terry O'Leary To Helm New York Homeland Security

O'Leary to serve as acting commissioner of the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Gov. Kathy Hochul has nominated Terence (Terry) O'Leary to serve as Acting Commissioner of the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services as of March 5, 2026, keeping a veteran insider at the helm while Albany works through the confirmation process.

Why it matters

O'Leary's appointment ensures continuity in the agency's leadership as it continues critical cybersecurity, emergency preparedness, and NG911 upgrade initiatives across New York state.

The details

O'Leary will run DHSES in an acting capacity while the New York State Senate weighs his nomination. He previously served as DHSES's executive deputy commissioner and has experience in roles such as deputy secretary for public safety and assistant district attorney. O'Leary is credited with building out several of DHSES's key programs, including the Cyber Incident Response Team, Domestic Terrorism Prevention Unit, UAS program, and Transportation Security and Emergency Preparedness program.

  • O'Leary's appointment as acting commissioner took effect on March 5, 2026.
  • The New York State Senate will vote on O'Leary's confirmation, though a public schedule for confirmation hearings has not yet been announced.

The players

Kathy Hochul

The Governor of New York who nominated Terence O'Leary as acting commissioner of the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.

Terence (Terry) O'Leary

A long-serving deputy at the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services who was nominated by Governor Hochul to serve as acting commissioner.

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What they’re saying

“I thank Governor Hochul for the honor of leading this incredible team.”

— Terence O'Leary, Acting Commissioner, New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (Governor's Press Office)

What’s next

The New York State Senate will vote on confirming Terence O'Leary as the permanent commissioner of the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.

The takeaway

O'Leary's appointment ensures continuity in the leadership of a critical state agency as it continues important cybersecurity, emergency preparedness, and infrastructure upgrade initiatives across New York.