WASHINGTON: Amid President Donald Trump’s growing frustration and bitterness over the number of Central American families crossing the southern border, Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen resigned.

Trump announced on Sunday in a tweet that US Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Kevin McAleenan would take over as acting head of the department.

McAleenan is a longtime border official who is well-respected by members of Congress and within the administration. The decision to appoint a top immigration officer to the post reflects Trump’s priority for the sprawling department founded to combat terrorism following the Sept 11 attacks. (Agencies)