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ATTORNEY GENERAL REMARKS

"Good afternoon. This morning, I had the pleasure of attending the swearing-in ceremony for Governor Tom Ridge as the head of the Office of Homeland Security. The tragic events of September 11 show how critical it is to have a coordinated and comprehensive national strategy to help protect the United States against terrorist attacks. I welcome Governor Ridge and look forward to working with him in the difficult task he faces.

"Yesterday, the President ordered the United States military to begin strikes against al Qaeda terrorist training camps and military installations of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan. Consistent with this development, I have instructed federal law enforcement to be on the highest state of alert to strengthen America's protections. We are taking strong precautions and other appropriate steps to protect the American people while we win this war.

"The FBI, through the National Threat Warning System, has contacted 18,000 law enforcement organizations and 27,000 corporate security managers advising them of this highest state of alert. Similar warnings have been sent to Information Sharing and Analysis Centers. All law enforcement agencies have been asked to evaluate whether additional local security measures are warranted in light of the current threat level.

"In addition, authorities in telecommunication, electric power, banking and finance, oil and gas, information technology, water service providers and railroads have been similarly advised.

"The Immigration and Naturalization Service has implemented a heightened border security plan, and all United States Attorneys offices continue to be on heightened alert.

"To safeguard our nuclear facilities, all have been placed on the highest state of alert and have increased the physical security in and around the facilities. Thorough screening of all employees and those with access is also being undertaken.

"Similar steps are being taken in conjunction with the Environmental Protection Agency with regard to industrial chemical and petrochemical facilities.

"The FAA will continue restrictions implemented to protect populated areas and sporting events.

"I believe, as the President does, that the best defense against terrorism is a multi-front offensive. Since September 11, we have arrested or detained 614 persons. We continue to look for 229 additional persons. Our national law enforcement network, involving millions of Americans, will continue working around the clock to find the people involved in the September 11th attacks and to disrupt any future plans for terrorism in America.

"I encourage all Americans to continue to have a heightened sense of awareness of their surroundings, and to report suspicious activity to law enforcement. Every American should be vigilant and help us defend our nation.

"I also encourage Congress to pass quickly the anti-terrorism legislation proposed by the administration so that law enforcement may have at their immediate disposal all possible anti-terrorism tools to fight this war.

"Osama bin Laden broadcast a message yesterday celebrating the attacks of September 11. He glorifies terrorists who kill thousands of innocent men, women and children with no warning and no mercy. He distorts religion to promote death and destroy life. He seeks fear, chaos, and terror for the American people. And he swears to steal our sense of security in America. This is the face of evil. After hearing his chilling words, there can be no doubt that America's actions of self-defense are justified.

"Although we must be aware of the heightened risk, we must not let that risk affect the freedom that makes America great. While we must be attentive to the threat, we must not yield to fear. The President pledged that America would not waver, would not tire, would not falter and we would not fail. Americans will rise to meet the President's call in our response which will reinforce liberty."

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