Security Debrief

Law Enforcement Need Public Cooperation for Safe Inauguration

January 12, 2009

With Inauguration festivities fast approaching, news about the vast amounts of security that will be needed to protect the Nation’s Capitol is increasing amid some grumbling from the public. While the increased security will inevitably cause delays and restrict movement in the National Mall, the public should take a few minutes to reflect on past events before they start complaining. The need for security is evident, as is the potentially devastating effects of not having the necessary safeguards in place.

Let's do the wave — Hal Rogers gets a waiver to stay as Ranking Member of Homeland Appropriations

Security Debrief |

January 10, 2009

I am generally a fan of term limits to ensure that new ideas have a chance to be heard, but in this case, a waiver was justified. The continuity on the subcommittee, especially at a time when the department won’t have much continuity, is extremely valuable to DHS and to all Americans who depend on its success.

FEMAINFOCUS Twitter Media Conference

Security Debrief |

January 9, 2009

Today, FEMA released the structure and ground rules for the media conference which Administrator David Paulison will participate in. The Twitter Media Conference on Monday, January 12th from 3:00 to 3:30 PM., titled, “FEMA In Focus: Where FEMA Was, Is Now, and Where FEMA Is Going”, is a part of an ongoing effort to use social media in emergency management.

CRS: Terrorist Attacks in Mumbai, India, and Implications for U.S. Interests

Security Debrief |

January 9, 2009

The Congressional Research Service provides analysis of the terrorist attacks in Mumbai, and what they mean for U.S. interests abroad and counterterrorism policy.

FBI Congressional Testimony on Mumbai

Security Debrief |

January 9, 2009

The FBI assesses that Lashkar-e-Tayyiba, which is well known to the U.S. Intelligence Community, remains a threat to U.S. interests in South Asia and, to a lesser extent, the U.S. Homeland.

FEMA In Focus: FEMA to Host Social Media Press Conference on Twitter

Security Debrief |

January 8, 2009

FEMA Administrator David Paulison will hold a social media press conference through Twitter on Monday, January 12th at 3 PM. Mr. Paulison will communicate using FEMA’s Twitter account @FEMAinFocus, and will open the floor to questions after making a brief opening statement.

Obama to eliminate White House Homeland Security Council?

Security Debrief |

January 8, 2009

The Obama transition team leaks possibility of merging the Homeland Security Council with the National Security Council. In this New York Times article, Security Debrief’s Stewart Verdery endorses the idea while others raise concerns it could muddy focus on critical homeland security issues.

Al Jazeera creates "Gaza Channel" on Twitter

Security Debrief |

January 8, 2009

Al Jazeera has created a “Gaza Channel” on Twitter, which is says provides real-time updates on “all the latest developments on the violence in and around the Gaza Strip.”

Too Many Masters

Security Debrief |

January 7, 2009

I am guessing that a capable executive like Governor Napolitano will recognize quickly upon her confirmation that having multiple committees pulling the department in conflicting directions, and having senior officials spending an inordinate time testifying before and briefing multiple committees, is untenable.

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