Bill, Thanks for the cogent post. Of course this isn't an issue that would divide the Republicrat Party. Keep reading. -Declan House Select Committee on Homeland Security Democrats JIM TURNER, Ranking Member www.house.gov/hsc/democrats/. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 2, 2004 Contact: Moira Whelan (202) 226-8827 Turner: The Terrorists Are Among Us Congressman Jim Turner, Ranking Member of the Select Committee on Homeland Security, issued the following statement regarding continued terror warnings in the Northeast and the President's announcements today: The threats on New York, New Jersey and Washington DC serve as a reminder that the terrorists are among us here at home. We have no idea how many more are still in this country surveying our ports, chemical plants and public transportation. We must assume there are other targets beyond the 5 buildings being protected today. The President's announcement endorsing the creation of a Director of National Intelligence is a step in the right direction, but long overdue. The recommendation was made over 18 months ago by the Congressional Joint Inquiry. The 9/11 Commission report makes it clear that we have not moved fast enough to protect this country and have not closed the security gaps that threaten us today. It is critical that we move forward to provide stronger homeland security and that we do it with great haste. Our terrorist enemies will not wait, and neither can we. ###