House Committee on Homeland Security Chairman Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY) opened an oversight hearing today in Washington, D.C., focusing on the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and Science and Technology Directorate (S&T).
In his opening statement, Garbarino recalled the impact of the September 11th attacks and highlighted the creation of TSA through congressional action to address vulnerabilities in aviation security. He noted that threats to transportation and critical infrastructure have grown more complex over time, with adversaries using advanced technology.
Garbarino pointed out that new risks include cyberattacks targeting transportation systems, as well as coordinated drone attacks. He cited foreign governments such as China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea as active participants in digital campaigns aimed at disrupting U.S. services and national security. The rapid development of technologies like artificial intelligence has increased both the scale and speed of these operations.
He emphasized CISA’s role as the lead civilian cyber defense agency responsible for securing federal networks, supporting critical infrastructure sectors such as energy, water, healthcare, transportation, communications, and financial services. According to Garbarino: “CISA’s responsibilities include securing federal civilian networks, supporting owners and operators of critical infrastructure, and coordinating with the private sector to reduce systemic cyber risk.”
The chairman addressed operational challenges faced by CISA over the past year due to evolving threats and organizational changes. He stated: “As with any agency responsible for our national security, it is critical these changes do not degrade readiness, responsiveness, or mission delivery.” He stressed that maintaining workforce continuity is essential for effective cybersecurity.
Garbarino expressed support for President Biden’s decision to renominate Sean Plankey as Director of CISA: “Mr. Plankey is a respected national security professional with decades of experience. His confirmation would provide long-needed stability and strategic direction at CISA.”
He also referenced upcoming major events in the United States—such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 LA Olympics—which will increase homeland security demands.
The chairman credited previous efforts under the Trump administration to strengthen national security systems but called for continued modernization supported by Congress: “It is my priority to ensure we support and invest in next generation technologies and adopt highly innovative and effective security approaches given the challenges facing the Department and our country.”
He concluded by thanking DHS personnel across various roles for their service during challenging times—including government shutdowns—and expressed confidence that collaboration could address current challenges while preparing for future threats.
