Reflections on September 11th
On the morning of September 11, 2001, I found myself in Del Rio, Texas, just a week away from finishing my pilot training. It was supposed to be a normal day, one filled with anticipation for my upcoming flying career.
But then everything changed. The tragic terrorist attacks that day reshaped not only my life but also revealed the ongoing struggles of our generation.
After graduating, I became a fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force, engaging in combat missions against ISIS in Iraq and Syria. Years later, the lessons from that day still resonate throughout my military service, consistently reminding me that threats remain, lurking silently in the background.
This understanding drives my current work as a member of Congress and as the chairman of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence. The trends we’ve observed affirm that the risk of terrorism is more pressing than ever. Our alert systems are signaling urgent action.
The Biden administration’s policies have created significant vulnerabilities in national security. During this time, over 50 jihadist terrorist incidents have been reported across 30 states between April 2021 and January 2025.
To make matters worse, customs and border security documented nearly 400 encounters with individuals on terrorist watchlists over the same timeframe. While the Trump administration took essential steps to address this issue, it’s unsettling to realize how many threats may still be unnoticed among us.
What’s striking is how the character of the threat has evolved since 9/11, becoming both more sophisticated and dangerous. Groups like ISIS, al-Qaeda, Hamas, and Hezbollah are now using advanced technology and digital networks, making their operations harder to detect. They utilize encrypted messaging apps, such as Telegram, for coordination and have even begun leveraging artificial intelligence for propaganda and recruitment.
The stability of our nations hinges on our ability to prevent political violence. Addressing these emerging technologies is vital.
That’s why I am spearheading initiatives in Congress aimed at combating these threats. My Generated AI Terrorism Risk Assessment Act mandates that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) conduct annual assessments to analyze how terrorist organizations could exploit AI in their operations.
Additionally, my “Counter Online Radicals and Terrorism Act” aims to strengthen our defenses by requiring DHS to evaluate the potential risks posed by foreign threats using cloud-based messaging applications.
The United States cannot afford to hesitate. Our national security depends on staying ahead of the rapidly evolving threats we face. These legislative measures are steps forward, but they are just the beginning. We need decisive leadership focused on bolstering security. President Trump has demonstrated this commitment.
Since taking office, President Trump prioritized counter-terrorism by controlling our borders and addressing threats that have emerged during the Biden administration. The recent budget agreement underscores this commitment, allocating significant funds for border security and homeland defense.
President Trump also removed previous restrictions on counter-terrorism operations, empowering field commanders instead of relying solely on Washington-based decisions. This shift has resulted in the elimination of 272 jihadist terrorists globally since January 20th.
As we navigate a world with shifting threats, we must hold on to the lessons learned from 9/11. Freedom comes at a cost. We need to stay vigilant and ready to confront evil before it reaches our homes.
The lessons of that day must steer our policy decisions. Approaching negotiations from a position of weakness only emboldens adversaries.
We can never forget what happened, and we must remain steadfast to ensure such tragedies are not repeated.
