Abstract

Security the Progressive Way

The article discusses homeland security measures in the United States. The Democratic Party is missing a golden opportunity to beat the Republican Party on homeland security issues. Although the 2004 election hinged on Americans' concerns about domestic terrorism, the Democrats typically give the subject unimaginative or predictable responses: Spend more money for first responders, roll back the U.S. Patriot Act and plug the holes in America's very holey defenses against evildoers. The President George W. Bush Administration strategy for homeland security that has emerged emphasizes preventive deterrence against Muslim communities, protection of dangerous facilities and enhanced capacity for police, firefighters and health professionals to respond to a terrorist attack. This is not just about civil liberties--there is a larger danger that Muslims are being targeted by federal authorities as a permanent internal threat.