The federal government's most important priority is to "provide for the common defense" and "secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity."

As we all know too well, September 11, 2001 was a horrific day full of devastation and destruction. It also reminded us of just how vulnerable we really are and that we need to take measures to help ensure our safety. I voted for establishing the Department of Homeland Security and for military action against Iraq because I believe these were necessary steps to improve our national security.

While we must be proactive and diligent in the fight against terrorism, we must be careful to balance security concerns with civil liberties. Attempting to provide absolute security to law-abiding American citizens could undermine the freedoms that have made America the sole global superpower.