Terrorism and Policy - Essay Example

The congress and public alike supported the Bush administrations efforts to stop another incident, one of the first of which was establishing the Office of Homeland Security less than a month after 9-11. This newly formed department’s mission was “to develop and coordinate the implementation of a comprehensive national strategy to secure the United States from terrorist threats or attacks” (David, 2002). The actions taken by the federal government have been as extensive as they are controversial.

Some submit that the government has overstepped its Constitutional authority enacting policies and laws which intrude on the privacy of American citizens while others believe these steps are necessary to protect lives and property. An overview of the strategy implemented by the government to prevent and respond to a terrorist attack will be presented along with both sides of the constitutional controversy emanating from the implementation of the PATRIOT Act. The National Strategy for Homeland Security formulates delegate’s homeland security operations in six crucial groups, intelligence and forewarning, transportation and border security, national counterterrorism coordination, defending vital infrastructures, guard against a catastrophic terrorist attack, preparedness and emergency response techniques.

“The strategic objectives of homeland security in order of priority are to: Prevent terrorist attacks within the United States; Reduce America’s vulnerability to terrorism; and Minimize the damage and recover from attacks that do occur” The Department of Homeland Security has been instrumental in assisting, providing instruction and funding first respond teams in cities across the country. These programs are designed to ensure “emergency response professionals are prepared, equipped and trained for any situation and by bringing together information and resources to prepare for and respond to a terrorist attack, natural disaster or