The security of the United States, which is so dependent on having accurate and timely intelligence, is not a Republican or a Democratic issue.

I think all members of Congress are very concerned about the fact that, while we want to see our law enforcement agencies have every means they can possibly have to combat terrorism, we've got to remember that we've had a Constitution in place for 225 years, and it has served us well.

The truth is our country, our people, our liberties, and our way of life are under attack by radical Islamic terrorists who kill and destroy in the name of religion.

First of all, I don't think that America is truly prepared for a biological or a chemical attack. However, we are moving in the right direction.

Intelligence is our first line of defense against terrorism, and we must improve the collection capabilities and analysis of intelligence to protect the security of the United States and its allies.

But the thing we do know is whatever it costs to save and protect American lives in this conflict, we're going to spend.

The backbone of our nation's domestic defense against terrorist attacks will continue to be the men and women in local law enforcement and emergency services.