In the aftermath of September 11, and as the 9/11 Commission report so aptly demonstrates, it is clear that our intelligence system is not working the way that it should.

Hillary Clinton’s quote reflects a critical assessment of the U.S. intelligence system following the tragic events of September 11, 2001. She points out that the 9/11 Commission report—a thorough investigation into the events surrounding the attacks—revealed serious flaws in how the intelligence community was functioning. The quote suggests that, in the aftermath of such a devastating event, it became clear that the existing systems for gathering and analyzing intelligence were not effective enough to prevent the attacks or respond adequately to emerging threats.

Clinton’s use of the phrase "not working the way that it should" highlights the inefficiencies and failures that were exposed by the 9/11 attacks. These shortcomings were not just about individual mistakes but systemic issues that prevented critical information from being shared or acted upon in a timely manner. The comment underscores the need for reform and better coordination within the intelligence agencies to ensure national security.

The 9/11 Commission report, which Clinton refers to, was a pivotal document that examined the events leading up to the attacks and made recommendations for improving U.S. intelligence and counterterrorism efforts. Clinton’s reference to it stresses the importance of such findings in understanding the gaps in the intelligence system and the need for change.

Ultimately, Clinton’s quote calls for reflection and reform in the U.S. intelligence system, urging the country to learn from the mistakes made before 9/11. The recognition of these issues, she suggests, is a first step toward ensuring that the mistakes of the past are not repeated, and that the nation is better prepared to protect itself from future threats.