Featured Article — July 2008

Experts urge extra vigilance during presidential transition

Expert analysts at fusion centers like this one (at NORAD) monitor and analyze potential threats to the nation's security.

Many intelligence experts are concerned that terrorists may plan an attack on the United States soon after the November 2008 elections, taking advantage of the transition of power in the presidential office.

Historically, this happened to both Bill Clinton and George W. Bush early in their administrations, as they were still forming their national security teams: in February 1993, during President Clinton's second month in office, terrorists bombed the World Trade Center; and the September 11 attacks occurred during President Bush's first year in office.  

Some national security experts see a clear pattern in these events. There is concern that terrorists might take advantage of a government in transition and launch attacks accordingly, or they might wait to see who is elected and then decide how and where to attack.

 While expert analysts — both at the national level and at regional centers like the KCTEW — continue to analyze data and look for patterns that might indicate an increased risk of terrorist attacks, you can play an important role, too.

Be aware of your surroundings and remain vigilant. If you observe suspicious people or activities, objects that are out of place, or things that just don't seem "right," report them to local authorities. Learn about the Seven Signs of Terrorism and how to report suspicious activity.

People like you are an important part of our regional response to the security challenges that we continue to face as a nation.