Where John McCain and Barack Obama stand on homeland security, based on their position papers and interviews with advisers and experts.
JOHN McCAIN
MAJOR FOCUS. McCain has indicated terrorism probably would continue to be the major focus of the Homeland Security Department, though he would also pay attention to natural disasters. He promises to be on the “offense” against terrorism, but vows never to repeat mistakes of the response to Hurricane Katrina.
ROLE OF GOVERNMENT. McCain generally favors partnering with the private sector, as Homeland Security does now, rather than issuing more regulations and mandates to require the private sector to take security steps.
LOCAL FUNDING. McCain says he would give federal money to local and state governments in areas “with the highest risk.” In the past, McCain has voted against Democratic measures to boost funds for first responders and makes no promise in his position paper to increase funding.
ALL CARGO SCREENED. As one example of a specific issue difference, McCain indicates he is not for screening and scanning all cargo, but would do it based on an assessment of the risk of the cargo.
CIVIL LIBERTIES. McCain is for renewal of the Patriot Act when it comes up next year, is for implementing the Real ID card next year, and supports the Military Commissions Act’s ban of habeas corpus rights to people held as enemy combatants.
BARACK OBAMA
MAJOR FOCUS. Barack Obama would bring more of an “all hazards” approach than the one taken now, meaning the Homeland Security Department would focus on all hazards – terrorism and natural disasters – more equally. Obama would continue to focus on terrorism, but would also emphasize weather and other disasters.
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