October 4, 2002

Harman Accuses White House Of Playing Politics
With Homeland Security Legislation

LOS ANGELES - Rep. Harman, the Ranking Democrat on the House Intelligence Subcommittee on Terrorism and Homeland Security, today released the following statement upon her return to California from Washington, DC:

"I delayed my return home in order to help move stalled homeland security legislation in the Senate.

I have reluctantly concluded that the Administration's desire to accuse Senate Democrats of failing to compromise has replaced any commitment it once had to meaningful homeland security policy. The Administration seems to prefer to play politics than begin the critical reorganization of federal government agencies. This stonewalling is outrageous, reckless and irresponsible.

I vigorously supported legislation to create a Department of Homeland Security because it was the right thing to do. Compromises were necessary to pass the bill in the House and I supported them.

The Senate majority should be able to vote on additional changes so we can get to a Senate/House Conference and resolve our differences. Instead, Senate Republicans, at the urging of the White House, are refusing to end a filibuster. Meanwhile, the number one threat to America - a terrorist attack at home - remains unaddressed."

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