Rep. English backs Homeland Security
MERCER, Pa. -- U.S. Rep. Phil English of Erie, R-3rd, likes the idea of a cabinet-level Homeland Security Department.
English, visiting the Mercer County's 911 Center on Monday, said the proposal by President Bush "is a solid blueprint for creating a single, unified homeland security department that will improve protection against domestic and international threats and be flexible enough to respond to new threats in the future."
Bush's plan creates a clear and efficient organizational structure incorporating several government agencies.
Having the responsibilities for homeland security spread over 100 different government agencies hobbles the administration's efforts to fight terrorism, English said, calling on Congress to put aside partisan differences and make the creation of the new department a top priority.
"As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over the Customs Service, I pledge to work with Gov. Tom Ridge [Homeland Security director] and President Bush to make sure this new initiative is successful," English said.