Joe Lieberman

The trend seems to be that local agencies seem to be supporting Federal agencies, such as CBP, because of their lack of funding and agents at the border.

Thanks very much, Senator Kyl, and thank both of you, Governor Brewer and Attorney General Goddard, for both highlighting the impact of the Mexican drug cartels on Arizona.

Well, thanks for saying that, Senator McCain.

Well, you were not successful in that, unfortunately, but I laud you for your effort.

Every Federal initiative, every Federal strategy and tactical planning opportunity needs State and local input because they have local consequences.

If they had shared, it is possible we could have stopped September 11.

Chairman Lieberman, you recognized this need for additional funding when you introduced legislation to add $550 million in Federal money to better secure our borders.

We must fight smarter and we must fight harder.

President Calderon is under real assault.

Her view, which confirmed mine, is no, it will not. We are dealing with very bad actors who are going to make money illegally one way or another.

We always ought to have a pro-American Government in Mexico and a pro-Mexican government in America.

I am concerned that transferring these resources from other parts of the country is not sustainable in the long term.

I may try to get you more resources that you are asking for.

I thought that yesterday's announcement... of what the Administration intends to do was significant.

Thanks very much, Senator Pryor, for your questions.

We have an inherent tendency to want to support 'surges,' particularly when we think they protect the security of the United States.

I think you are going to need more resources to get this job done.

This is an existential threat to the government of Mexico.

This morning, we are going to focus in on the ruthless drug violence in Mexico.

The Mexican drug cartels are the No. 1 organized crime threat in the United States today.

The IMET program I think provides long-term benefits for our national interest as well as transforming those militaries in positive ways.

Thank you very, very much. That should make all of us feel more secure.

I'm very grateful for the work that has been done at NORTHCOM to improve our homeland security since September 11.

I think certainly there may be a need for additional manpower; whether that is best provided by National Guard or additional law enforcement agencies.

Let me ask you to indicate to us how much of a threat to our homeland security you view drug-related violence from Mexico?