On December 25, 2009, an individual on board NW Airlines Flight 253 set off a device and was subdued by passengers and crew. As a result of this incident, TSA has worked with airline and law enforcement authorities, as well as federal, state, local, and international partners to put additional security measures in place to ensure aviation security.
The government must continually balance the need for security with the realization that the United States remains a favored destination for immigrants from around the world.
“What defensive action cannot and must not mean is that we shut down, board up, wall in or become a fortress,” Former Homeland Security Secretary said. “Because what we are trying to protect and at the same time preserve is not only lives but our way of life. America is a dynamic country. Our strength as Americans is the sum of every generation that has ever been born in or emigrated to this great land.”
The immigration debate is expected to intensify later in 2010. Lawmakers will consider several proposals aimed at cracking down on illegal immigration. At the same time, House and Senate members may also take up a recent Bill proposal for a guest-worker program and other important changes that would make it easier for some illegal immigrants to remain in the United States. We will keep you posted of course.