Obviously, we are providing a lot of aid to Pakistan, and there were efforts recently to raise taxes on those who could easily pay the taxes.

I think they lost an important opportunity to inform the Congress and the public why they believe the SPOT program is worthy of our support.

Too often that investment has been wasted and too often we have relied on technology that is not adequately tested before it is deployed.

I think that there are a number of questions that actually go to things like training protocols and other aspects of the SPOT program.

Ranking Member Edwards, I thank you again for this opportunity to discuss the research to validate the Screening of Passengers by Observation Technique Referral Report.

We would hope that a DHS-funded validation report on the SPOT program would be available for this hearing today.

Can hunches be harnessed in service of identifying potential threats to air traffic safety? That is the key question that underlies today's hearing.

I want to thank the Chairman for calling this hearing and I look forward to hearing the testimony of the witnesses who are here today.

we don't yet know if the SPOT program is 'a fiasco.' Isn't that correct?

it would be good to get a cost/benefit analysis and risk assessment before we spend another, you know, $20 million, $2 million, or $2 on the program.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And congratulations to you as you convene the first of what I hope are many oversight hearings to make sure that we are paying attention to the kind of oversight that we need to engage in on the Science and…

This question about who needs to appear or not is not a decision, really, for the Administration.

I would urge DHS to consider that.

Like many experts, I believe the uprising represents the people's aspirations for greater political rights and economic opportunities, not for extremism and violence.

It is interesting. I have watched 'Lie to Me' on occasion and I find it is compelling but not too scientific in my opinion.

I do, however, vigorously oppose efforts to use terms such as 'efficiency' and 'streamlining' as an excuse to eliminate help to people that need it most.

I strongly agree with that recommendation and the need to take a look at corporate tax loopholes, such as those that allow General Electric to avoid paying its fair share for our national security.

If I didn't agree to this, I would just tell the committee Members, we would not have had anybody from the Department of Homeland Security show up at the committee today.