Cong. Darin LaHood wishes Pres. Biden had ordered the Chinese spy balloon downed before it got to the Atlantic coast. Lt. Gen. Doug Sims told a Senate subcommittee last week, the risk to people on the ground was worse than the risk of the Chinese learning something new. Assistant Defense Secretary for Homeland Defense Melissa Dalton said postponing a shoot-down gave more time to observe the balloon and plan for picking up the pieces.
LaHood says people need to realize how serious the threat is. He says China wants to replace the U.S. as the dominant power in the world.
LaHood is on the House Intelligence Committee. He spoke to reporters during a visit to Streator today. He toured the fire station and City Hall, speaking with city officials including Fire Chief Gary Bird and City Council members about grants and how various services function.
Streator Fire Dept. Chief Gary Bird (left) and Cong. Darin LaHood at the Streator fire station Feb. 14, 2023