I don't see how politicizing the BOP will help matters. The unique thing about the BOP is that its leaders are promoted from within its ranks and have a thorough knowledge not only of agency operations but of corrections in general. I think that's a major reason the BOP has been at the forefront of corrections innovation during the past 40+ years.

State corrections organizations may appoint directors with little or no knowledge and experience of corrections and of the agencies they'll be in charge of.

http://www.thecrimereport.org/news/crime-and-justice-news/2015-07-ky-sens-and-bop-director