BlakeFarenthold

The future of our nation depends on a strong national defense, and strengthening our homeland security against threats both foreign and domestic is always a priority. Recent events like the Boston Bombings and attack on the U.S. Consulate in Libya that killed Glen Doherty, Tyrone Woods, Sean Smith, and Ambassador Chris Stevens, drive home the point that although we have many allies, there are also those around the world that wish to do us harm.

In Texas, border security is a critical issue. It is not just people crossing the border to look for a job anymore. It's professional drug runners working for international criminal cartels and an ever increasing number of "special interest aliens" from countries with terrorists links that are taking advantage of America's porous border.

But in the 21st century, national security is more than border security and a strong military. Top advisors have warned the U.S. government that they should be addressing the threat of a cyber-attack with the same intensity they address the threat of a terrorist attack, and I agree. Part of our Homeland Security strategy needs to be focused on protecting our IT networks, like those that support our power grids, financial systems, and the internet. We need to be implementing a risk-based approach when looking at potential threats while being ever mindful of protecting the privacy of Americas.We must also ensure that our military has the resources and support our troops need from Congress, while leaving strategic and tactical decisions to the commanders in the field.