The civilian work force of Homeland Security numbers 188,000 , according to an estimate provided to the senators by Homeland Security . Sens . Joe Lieberman , Susan Collins call situation ` ` unacceptable , untenable '' Department of Homeland Security has more than 5000 contract employees . Full - time civilian employees at DHS number 300 . Lawmakers fear DHS ` ` inappropriately has ceded core decisions to civilians ''
Sens . Joe Lieberman , Susan Collins call situation ` ` unacceptable , untenable '' Department of Homeland Security has more than 5000 contract employees . Full - time civilian employees at DHS number 300 . Lawmakers fear DHS ` ` inappropriately has ceded core decisions to civilians ''