Risks of an Overly Broad Terrorism Watchlist: Senate Report Reveals
A Senate report warns that the growing terrorist watchlist and multiple screening processes implemented after 9/11 are uncoordinated and overly broad, posing risks to national security. The report highlights the lack of oversight, insufficient options for Americans subject to wrongful screenings, and the potential misidentification of individuals. The size of the watchlist has grown to about 1.8 million names, with U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents making up a small fraction. The report calls for a review of the watchlist enterprise, reform of the redress process, and increased transparency. The Department of Homeland Security acknowledges the importance of civil rights and liberties but argues that some findings lack important context.