House Intelligence Committee Chairman Mike Turner visited the site of the September 11 attacks in New York City, issuing a stark call for vigilance as he warned that America now faces new forms of terrorist threats, including those using drones and artificial intelligence.
Turner, a Republican from Ohio, traveled to the 9/11 Memorial ahead of the anniversary, stating that the United States must adapt its defenses to counter evolving methods that hostile actors could use to attack the homeland. His visit and remarks come as intelligence and national security officials grow increasingly concerned about how advances in technology could be weaponized against Americans.
During his appearance at the hallowed site, Turner pointed to the symbolic importance of Ground Zero as a reminder of the devastating consequences when the nation lets its guard down. He urged both policymakers and the public to recognize that the tactics used on September 11, 2001, are no longer the only threat. Turner said that emerging technologies such as drones and artificial intelligence could be harnessed by terrorists or hostile nation-states to bypass traditional security measures.
“We have to be vigilant to new threats,” Turner declared at the memorial. “Drones and AI represent new frontiers that those who wish to harm us are exploring.”
Turner highlighted that consumer drones, which are cheap and widely available, could be used to deliver explosives or gather intelligence for bad actors. He emphasized that artificial intelligence adds a new layer of complexity, enabling more sophisticated attacks and making it harder for authorities to predict or prevent them.
He warned that bad actors “are increasingly using technology that is inexpensive and difficult to trace.” Turner called for a “whole-of-government” response, urging intelligence agencies, law enforcement, and Congress to work together to develop new strategies and defenses against these novel threats.
As chair of the House Intelligence Committee, Turner said he is pushing for bipartisan legislation to address the risks posed by drones and artificial intelligence. He stated that current laws are not sufficient to keep up with the rapid pace of technological change. Turner did not specify particular bills but stressed that updating security protocols is a priority for his committee.
He also referenced recent briefings received by lawmakers, in which intelligence officials outlined scenarios where drones or AI-driven systems could be used to disrupt critical infrastructure or launch attacks with little warning.
Turner urged the public to stay informed and engaged on the issue, stating that Americans must understand that the threat landscape has changed dramatically since 2001. “We can’t afford to prepare for the last attack,” he said. “We have to anticipate the next one.”
Authorities have not publicly detailed any specific threats tied to drones or artificial intelligence, but Turner’s comments signal a push within Congress to get ahead of the problem. Investigators and lawmakers will need to determine how best to regulate these technologies without stifling innovation or violating constitutional rights.
Turner said his committee will continue to hold hearings and closed-door sessions with intelligence agencies to assess vulnerabilities and develop recommendations. He underscored the need for new detection systems, counter-drone technology, and improved information sharing across government agencies.
For further details and the full account of Turner’s remarks, see descriptive anchor text.
Turner’s visit to Ground Zero served as both a memorial and a warning: the tactics that caught America off guard in 2001 have changed, but the determination of those who wish to do harm remains. He called on leaders and citizens alike to take the threat seriously and demanded that the government move faster to close security gaps before they are exploited.
American security means staying ahead of the curve, not chasing yesterday’s threats. Lawmakers and law enforcement face a clear choice: adapt, or risk repeating history.
