Dayton Reporter

House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence Chairman Rick Crawford has commented on the release of the 2025 Annual Threat Assessment by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI). In his statement, Crawford emphasized the need for the United States to focus on threats within the Western Hemisphere. He pointed out that transnational criminal organizations have exploited what he describes as "four years of Biden’s open border policies."

Crawford highlighted China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea as sophisticated adversaries testing U.S. boundaries. He expressed concern over China's growing influence in the Western Hemisphere, describing it as a significant threat at America's doorstep. According to Crawford, "The United States is in a great power competition with China and the outcome will shape the future of the global stage as we know it."

He also called for a shift from vigilance to "persistent preparedness" in response to current threats. Crawford noted that former President Trump and his administration would need four years to restore national security measures dismantled by previous policies.

Crawford concluded by expressing anticipation for discussions with new intelligence community leaders at an upcoming Worldwide Threats hearing. He hopes these discussions will address strategies to enhance U.S. national security against both current and future threats.