Kerry: Bush and Ridge Consistently on the Wrong Side of Intel Reform

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Kerry-Edwards Campaign: Bush and Ridge Consistently on the Wrong Side of Intelligence Reform

8/12/2004 10:52:00 AM


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To: National Desk and Political Reporter

Contact: Chad Clanton or Phil Singer, 202-464-2800, both of Kerry-Edwards 2004, Web: http://www.johnkerry.com

WASHINGTON, Aug. 12 /U.S. Newswire/ -- The following was released today be the Kerry-Edwards Campaign:

Today, Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge will appear before the House Intelligence Committee today to discuss the recommendations of the 9-11 Commission. Perhaps Ridge should take a few minutes to explain why Bush opposed the creation of the Commission, why he personally opposed the most vital aspect of the 9-11 Commission's recommendations -- the creation of a National Intelligence Director, and why Bush believes it is best to put a figurehead in that post rather than an individual with real powers.

"The 9/11 Commission made one point very clear in their recent report -- we are still not as safe as we should or could be. And so far, President Bush has only has done little to act upon the 9/11 Commission's recommendations.

"While the appointment of Representative Porter Goss fills a vacancy, it does nothing to address the urgent questions of how this administration will reform our nation's intelligence system. Astonishingly, in the face of heightened terror alerts and nearly 3 years after 9/11, we still have no clear picture of what the Bush Administration's game plan is for reforming and strengthening our intelligence community. When will President Bush get the message? What more will it take for him to act to make real intelligence reforms.

"Time is not on our side. We do not have time for delay, and we cannot afford half measures. President Bush must now work with the Congress to carry out the necessary reforms to make our nation safe," said Kerry campaign spokesperson Chad Clanton.

More: http://releases.usnewswire.com/GetRelease.asp?id=116-08122004