Patronage? Top Virginia Dem's son appointed chief of staff for Customs and Border Protection

Sen. Tim Kaine, 2016 Democratic vice presidential nominee, serves on Senate Armed Services and Budget committees, both of which are involved in funding and oversight for the border enforcement agency.
Virginia flag and American flag in 2019
By Charlotte Hazard

Nathaniel Kaine, son of Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.), has been appointed chief of staff for U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Tim Kaine, the Democrats' 2016 vice presidential nominee, serves on the Senate Armed Services and Budget committees, both of which are involved in funding and oversight for the border enforcement agency. 

Nathaniel Kaine is a Marine Corps Reservist who also served as an assistant operations officer for the Black Sea Rotational Force, according to the NARA & DVIDS Public Domain Archive. 

"Nat will continue to to advance CBP's objectives and the Administration's priorities relating to trade, travel, and border security," said CBP Commissioner Chris MagnusVENUE?. "He will also work closely with CBP leadership to facilitate the daily operations of the agency."

Nathaniel Kaine received a bachelor's degree in political science from George Washington University and a master's degree in public management from the University of Maryland School of Public Policy. 

"Nat brings considerable talent and insight to the role, and I hope you will continue to work closely with him to advance the mission of this agency and support CBP's workforce," Magnus wrote in a letter. "Please join me in wishing Nat continued success in this position."