DHS Watch : Secretary Ridge Warns of Potential Attack
Posted Jul 16, 2004
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On July 8, 2004, Tom Ridge, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), held a press conference to indicate that there is a serious threat that Al-Qaeda will attempt to attack the United States in an effort to disrupt the democratic process. Many believe these potential attacks may be in conjunction with the 2004 Democratic or Republican national convention or in conjunction with the voting process, itself. The DHS also recognized that there may already be Al-Qaeda operatives in the U.S. It is unclear whether the DHS believes that additional operatives would attempt to enter the country before an attack or if the would-be attackers are already in the United States.
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Though this risk was announced at a press conference, the alert has not been elevated on the national level. We remind our MurthyDotCom and MurthyBulletin readers to carry proof of their statuses at all times, should they are questioned in the name of security. Further, while visiting landmarks, bridges or tunnels, it is advisable to limit video recordings, as sightseeing may appear to be surveillance. This is particularly important prior to and during the convention of the Republican Party in New York (Aug 30 – Sep 2) and the Democratic Party convention in Boston (July 26-29). It is important to always be aware of the alert levels during any travel.