We need to look at expanding the number of known or suspected terrorists and their associates who are placed on screening lists.

Do you have all of the authority to do what needs to be done?

The plot that unfolded on Christmas Day just shows that the defense of our homeland from terrorists is dependent on information collection and sharing, intelligence analysis, and the vigilance of our security personnel.

Do we have the tools now to communicate, completely and effectively, without bureaucratic mumbo-jumbo, between intelligence sources and security forces?

the question is, Where does the buck stop? Who's accountable for that?

After the Fort Hood incident, it would seem that there would be a deep look into everything that might be associated or connected with that particular cleric.

I don't know how you improve security. I don't know how you put in better machinery.

I do think that the first efforts in that regard are very, very good.

Will you reserve the capability, if you see something that can be done on a more expedited basis, on a temporary measure obviously to act?

So that's our question to you.

However, as we all know, the Colgan Flight 3407 is weighing on our minds.