Mike Turner, the Chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (R-OH), released a rather cryptic message on Wednesday morning regarding a “serious threat to national security” that the committee made available to all Members of Congress. He also called on Joe Biden to un-classify the information.
Statement from Chairman @RepMikeTurner: pic.twitter.com/OA9yJuEPlf
— House Intelligence Committee (@HouseIntel) February 14, 2024
The short statement is:
“Today the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence made information about a serious threat to national security available to all members of Congress.”
“I request that President Biden release all information related to this danger so that Congress and the Administration can discuss openly the necessary actions to counter this threat.”
Turner’s statement immediately sparked speculation about the nature of the danger and why he chose to release the information this way. Could this be China, with all the threats that are increasing abroad? Iran? Russia? Or is it something closer to home given the porous border on the south?
In an email sent to House Members, the issue is described as “urgent”, and it concerns a “destabilizing military capability from abroad.”
🚨FROM ME AND @heatherscope
House members got this email
House Intel Chair Mike turner just told house republicans to go to SCIF for a briefing on FISA ahead of a possible vote this week. pic.twitter.com/OZyxn4JlDQ
— Jake Sherman (@JakeSherman) February 14, 2024
During the White House briefing on Wednesday evening, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan answered questions about the latest news.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan pressed on House Intel Committee Chair Mike Turner’s statement about a potential urgent “serious national security threat.” pic.twitter.com/j1b5soH4PD
— Townhall.com (@townhallcom) February 14, 2024
Reporter: “Can you tell Americans that there’s nothing they have to worry about right now in terms of what [House Intel Chair Turner] describes as a ‘national security threat?’”
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan: “That question is impossible to answer with a straight… pic.twitter.com/TG4Sbhs6TE
— Townhall.com (@townhallcom) February 14, 2024
When asked if he can reassure Americans that there’s no reason to worry, Sullivan replied:
“Well, I’m not sure that you can answer a question with a simple ‘Yes’. Americans are aware that the world is full of challenges and threats that we have to deal with daily. These threats and challenges can range from terrorism to state actors. We have to deal with these threats and challenges in a manner that ensures the ultimate safety of the American public. I’m confident that the decisions President Biden is making will ensure the future security of Americans. I’ll stand at this podium, look you straight in the eyes, and say that I believe we can, will, and are protecting national security in the United States.”
This story is developing. As new information becomes available, we will provide updates.