Susan Davis: “I participated in a number of homeland security simulations with the National Defense University, and I learned that one…”

“I participated in a number of homeland security simulations with the National Defense University, and I learned that one of the most significant issues in homeland security is the importance of the local response. This local response falls squarely on the shoulders of our first responders, which is why I am concerned that this budget fails to provide them with the support that they need. By cutting homeland security funding below the President's request, this budget provides no remedy to address the President's cuts in first responder spending. People often forget how much we rely on our local first responders to protect our homeland security. Although we have adopted new systems, new technologies, and meaningful homeland security, it requires dedicated people to work the front lines. I believe that we can play a much stronger role in supporting our first responders. In fact, we have played that role in the past by providing them with the funding and the resources they need. Is now really the time, Mr. Chairman, to cut back?”