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.

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

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

It's a real shame. It's a real shame.

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 Christmas Day terrorism incident is a bleak reminder of the ever-evolving nature of terrorist threats against the United States.

The defense of our homeland from terrorists is highly dependent on information collection and sharing.

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

I am very concerned along with Senator Rockefeller.

So that's our question to you.

Could I ask you though, don't you have an emergency authority as well?