Highly Offensive

The following is a press release from Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite's office:

Brown-Waite: DHS Report Highly Offensive

Obama Administration Report labels veterans “potential terrorists”

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – U.S. Representative Ginny Brown-Waite (FL-05) today demanded an explanation from the Department of Homeland Security regarding their labeling of our nation’s veterans as potential “terrorists.” The report also labeled many commonly held views as “radical,” such as opposition to illegal immigration, the belief in the right of the State to conduct its own affairs, and the fear of communist regimes.

“I am astonished and offended that this Administration would label the men and women who so bravely wore our nation’s uniform as possible terrorists,” Rep. Brown-Waite said today. “The lumping of these members of the Armed Forces in with mad-men like Timothy McVeigh is not only morally reproachable, but intellectually disingenuous.”

The report titled “Rightwing Extremism: Current Economic and Political Climate Fueling Resurgence in Radicalization and Recruitment” was released last week by DHS’ Office of Intelligence and Analysis. It suggested acts of violence could come from unnamed “rightwing extremists” concerned about illegal immigration, increasing federal power, and restrictions on firearms. It singled out returning war veterans as susceptible to recruitment.

Rep. Brown-Waite authored a letter to Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano demanding clarification on how and why her department came to these offensive conclusions.