Topic: Jay Johnson

Debbie Wasserman Schultz disputes claims by former DHS Secretary Jay Johnson that the DNC refused federal help during the 2016 hacks. She asserts the FBI never properly contacted the DNC leadership, only calling the main tech support switchboard. The hosts discuss the possibility that the "Russian" hacks were actually "spoofed" using tools developed by the CIA or NSA, as suggested by Vault 7 leaks.

Former DHS Secretary Jay Johnson expresses frustration that the FBI did not inform him of the DNC hacking for several months. Johnson also notes that the Obama administration's October 7th statement on Russian interference was "drowned out" by the release of the Access Hollywood video. The hosts argue that the media intentionally prioritized the Trump scandal over the national security warning.

Homeland Security Secretary Jay Johnson is facing criticism as airport security wait times reach record highs across the United States. While officials attribute the delays to increased travel volume and a shortage of Transportation Security Officers (TSOs), Congress has agreed to provide additional funding for hiring. Travelers are currently being advised to arrive at airports at least three hours before their scheduled departures.

CIA Director John Brennan and Homeland Security Secretary Jay Johnson had their personal email accounts compromised by a hacker using the handle "Crackers with Attitude" (CWA). WikiLeaks subsequently published documents from Brennan's AOL account, including a draft of his security clearance form from 2008. The hacker claimed the breach was a protest against U.S. policy in Palestine, while the hosts question the timing and the lack of sensitive intelligence in the leaked files.

The Department of Homeland Security is described as being in disarray following the departure of Janet Napolitano. With over 200,000 employees, the agency faces significant management challenges and internal friction. FBI Director James Comey addressed these "turf battles" using a football metaphor, urging agencies to "run great routes" and focus on excellence rather than jurisdictional disputes.

The Department of Homeland Security and the DOJ are working with international partners to enhance "counter-radicalization" and border security. These programs encourage local communities and religious leaders to identify and report "suspicious behaviors," which the hosts liken to historical state spying programs.

DNI James Clapper and DHS Secretary Jay Johnson testified that while Al-Qaeda's core is weakened, the threat has "morphed and franchised" globally. Clapper estimated there are now over 1,500 radical groups in Syria alone, with total insurgent strength reaching up to 115,000 fighters. The testimony suggests that the "war on terror" is expanding into new territories in Africa and the Middle East despite claims that Al-Qaeda is on the run.