On the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, members of Congress are increasingly concerned about the threat of domestic terrorism. This sentiment crosses party lines, as both Republicans and Democrats acknowledge the dangers posed by this rising menace.
Rep. Tim Burchett, a Republican from Tennessee, spoke with Fox News Digital, emphasizing the need for vigilance regarding all forms of terrorism. However, he specifically highlighted the left’s role in the recent assassination of conservative leader Charlie Kirk, stating, “They’ve got blood on their hands on this one… there is no question.” Burchett warned that the political repercussions might be felt in upcoming elections, foreseeing significant consequences at the ballot box.
Texas Rep. Chip Roy echoed these sentiments, declaring, “We need a country that respects the rule of law and can actually engage in civil discourse.” He believes that the current state of discourse is troubling. “We have threats from all around, overseas and here… but you know we got to start respecting the rule of law again or we’re not going to have anything left,” Roy stated. His focus on civil discussion reflects the growing anxiety about societal divisions leading to violence.
Rep. Jodey Arrington, also from Texas, voiced a sense of urgency, suggesting that the threat from domestic terrorists is imminent. “It’s not a matter of if but when,” he stated assertively. Arrington, who recalls being in the White House during the 9/11 attacks, expressed alarm over terrorists gaining entry through an insecure border, emphasizing that “you also can’t allow your border to be wide open.” His comments reflect a deep concern about the safety of the nation in light of its current border policies.
Rep. Troy Nehls shared his apprehensions about the consequences of the current administration’s border strategies. He pointed to the influx of individuals crossing the southern border, labeling these groups as terrorists and noting their involvement in violence against innocent people. Nehls lamented the current environment, stating, “We can’t have a casual conversation and agree to disagree…” and warned that political discourse has devolved into violence. “It’s gone too far,” he added, capturing the frustration felt by many regarding the societal climate.
Meanwhile, Rep. Don Bacon from Nebraska noted that although international terrorist threats persist, an increasing number of domestic issues have emerged. He marked a spiritual decline in the country, asserting, “A lot of folks don’t have hope or purpose… a spiritual hope or purpose.” Bacon believes this lack of direction, combined with social media’s amplification of anger and division, poses a significant risk to public safety.
Democrats are also voicing their concerns about domestic terrorism. Rep. André Carson from Indiana admitted that the fear of domestic terrorism “keeps me up at night.” He expressed a desire to collaborate with Republican counterparts, law enforcement, and community activists to safeguard American communities. This call for cooperation reveals a shared understanding of the heightening threat from domestic extremism.
Rep. Ritchie Torres from New York raised alarms about the impact of social media on the rise of violent extremism. “In the age of social media, I think we’re witnessing the rise of violent extremism and domestic terrorism both at home and abroad,” he remarked. Torres’s insights reflect a growing awareness of how communication technologies can exacerbate the spread of extremist ideologies, putting public figures and citizens alike at risk. He went on to explain his anxiety about public safety when attending events, stating, “I have lost an incentive to do public events without extensive safety precautions.” This highlights how the environment has changed for officials and citizens engaged in public discourse.
As the nation reflects on the legacy of 9/11, the focus has shifted towards a pressing concern about internal threats. Both Republican and Democratic lawmakers acknowledge the dangers posed by domestic terrorism, marking a rare moment of bipartisan agreement on this critical issue. The growing fear among officials about the volatility of public discourse and rising extremism speaks to a broader unease felt across the country.
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