Tester: Blind Spot in Vetting Process Exposes U.S. to Risk

Following shocking news reports about the San Bernardino shooters’ use of social media, Senator Jon Tester today demanded that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) begin reviewing social media data to better identify potential terrorists and prevent them from entering the country.

Tester, in a letter to DHS Secretary Jeh Johnson, called the current background check system “outdated and inadequate” and demanded the department update its immigration vetting policies to include a rigorous review of a visa applicant’s social media accounts.

“We continue to face threats in this country from those spouting violent extremist thoughts on social media,” said Tester, a senior member of the Senate Homeland Security Committee.  “The Department must ensure that terrorist speech and terrorist content on social media are reviewed by U.S. officials as they conduct background investigation screenings on potential immigrants to the United States.”

Tester last week outlined his national security agenda, which included enhancing the visa waiver program and closing a loophole to prevent suspected terrorists from buying guns.