Since September 11th Congress has created the Department of Homeland Security, more than doubled the homeland security budget and implemented a bipartisan overhaul of our intelligence systems.

In this quote, Doc Hastings, a former U.S. Congressman, outlines the significant steps taken by Congress in response to the September 11th attacks. He highlights the creation of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which was established to coordinate and oversee national efforts to protect the U.S. from future terrorist threats. The quote also mentions the doubling of the homeland security budget, reflecting an increase in financial commitment to safeguarding the country, and the bipartisan overhaul of U.S. intelligence systems, emphasizing the cooperative effort to improve intelligence capabilities and prevent attacks.

Hastings emphasizes the bipartisan nature of these changes, suggesting that, despite political differences, there was a shared recognition of the need to strengthen national security after the devastating 9/11 attacks. This overhaul of intelligence systems aimed to improve coordination between agencies, enhance information sharing, and ensure a more effective response to emerging threats. The creation of DHS and the expansion of the homeland security budget were seen as necessary measures to address vulnerabilities exposed by the attacks.

The origin of this quote lies in the post-9/11 context when U.S. government officials were under increasing pressure to prevent future terrorist attacks. As a member of Congress, Hastings was involved in discussions about how to reorganize and enhance the nation's security infrastructure. The establishment of DHS and significant reforms in intelligence practices were key legislative actions taken in the years following 9/11 to strengthen the U.S. defense against terrorism.

Ultimately, Hastings’ quote reflects the major steps taken by the U.S. government to adapt and improve its security framework in the wake of 9/11. It highlights the comprehensive approach, involving organizational changes, budget increases, and cooperative political efforts, to better protect the nation from the evolving threat of terrorism.