Sheila Jackson Lee: “I have served on the Homeland Security Committee, tragically, since the occurrences of 9/11, and I want to congratulate…”

“I have served on the Homeland Security Committee, tragically, since the occurrences of 9/11, and I want to congratulate this Nation for moving toward securing its people in a way that balances civil liberties and as well recognizes our responsibilities. As the chairwoman of the Transportation Security Committee, I want to acknowledge that in looking at how we treat our guests that come from other countries, we should always continue to review those circumstances. Just a few days ago, our guests from Pakistan, Pakistani parliamentarians, were traveling through our airport and were detained and asked a number of questions even though they were traveling with State Department escorts, as we understand it. I believe it is important to always remain secure but to remain balanced as well. I think it is appropriate that we look again at our procedures to ensure that our international diplomatic guests receive the kind of responsible treatment that is appropriate. We thank those who serve us on the front lines, but I will be looking forward to a full report by the Department of Homeland Security, and I offer to those dignitaries our respect because we do believe in international diplomacy.”