Release of CIA Report Was Important Step (Sen. Kit Bond)

Good intelligence is our best defense in protecting Americans from terrorist attacks and it is important we learn from past mistakes and get it right. The release of Wednesday’s report was an important step.

Generally, I agree that we should be looking forward, not backward, in addressing the threats to our country. However, it is important for the American people, especially those who lost loved ones in the September 11 attacks, to see accountability within our government. That’s why I joined with Senator Wyden, and previous Intelligence Committee leadership, in demanding that the report be released.

Those trying to twist the report for political means are delivering an unwarranted cheap shot. The problems in the CIA were deep-rooted and pre-dated this Administration. The previous Administration as well as the Congress should share in the blame for slashing intelligence funding and depriving the Intelligence Community of much needed human intelligence resources.