Decision 2008: The Candidates' Positions

The 2008 elections offer a unique and historic transition. We are guaranteed a change in leadership that guides our nation’s homeland security enterprise. Not since the Eisenhower Administration took over the Department of Defense or President Reagan took leadership over the Department of Energy have we had a point in history where the stewards of our nation’s security—in this case homeland security—would be wholly or mostly replaced for the first time. This presents those coming to power with a unique opportunity, but also a temptation—an opportunity to reform, revise and ultimately improve on the policies and processes that shape our national homeland security architecture, but also a temptation to potentially overcorrect. For nearly a year, candidates have been running for office. But neither candidate has offered a clear view of what homeland security in an Obama nor McCain Presidency would look like.  Two of the leading surrogates for each campaign held a discussion and dialogue on how the next President intends to counter the terrorist threat and shape the US homeland security enterprise—what are the priorities and what are the greatest challenges.

The Homeland Security Strategy Forum is a partnership between CSIS and Deloitte, the purpose of which is to advance candid and insightful discussion, thinking and analysis on protecting America against the threat of catastrophic terrorism.

Frank Keating
former Governor of Oklahoma
representing the McCAIN Campaign and

James Lee Witt
former FEMA Director
representing the OBAMA Campaign

moderated by:

David Heyman
Director, CSIS Homeland Security Program