July 25, 2005—Terrorist attacks are ever increasing across the globe.  This month alone, London has witnessed two terrorist attacks in the public transit system and most recently, innocent civilians were killed in Sharm el-Sheik, Egypt over the weekend.  Local hospitals in Egypt are reporting the current death toll to be as high as 88 people, including one American.

 Congressman Trent Franks (R-AZ) sends his condolences to those affected by these tragic events.  He is also publicly condemning the attacks while once again highlighting the importance of the PATRIOT Act and border security.  While not substantiated, groups associated with al-Qaeda are claiming responsibility for the attacks.  Franks issued the following statement:

 “These last terrorist episodes attest to the fact that terrorist cells are well-networked and communicating regularly.  Evidence suggests this is a tactic in which terrorists claim residence and plan attacks over a long period of time with the full intention of harming citizens. 

 “These attacks make it ever more important that we adjust our policies to secure our borders and provide for the proper surveillance mechanisms in order to protect the innocent from harm and death.  Recent events underscore not only the dire need for the PATRIOT Act but also for increased and more comprehensive border security.  We are in a new day and new time and we must in all ways be prepared.”

 Franks voted in favor of the PATRIOT Act Reauthorization on July 21, 2005.  

Trent Franks is the Congressman from the 2nd Congressional District of Arizona.  He is a member of the House Armed Services Committee, the House Judiciary Committee and Vice Chairman of the Constitution Subcommittee.