Vulnerable time

The latest concerns about terrorism involve Western Europe: the United States is worried about terrorists with European Union passports entering the country.

So warned Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff in an appearance before the House Homeland Security Committee Thursday.

Mr. Chertoff issued his cautions as the United States enters a vulnerable time, one that terrorists could exploit. Next month will bring presidential nominating conventions, followed by the November elections and the presidential transition in January.

The United States will be immersed in the presidential election this fall. There is potential for reduced focus on security, at least among the American people.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates has warned that the government must plan for a seamless transition to handle the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The same is true for national security.

Some may think that the country is too obsessed with security. But the greater danger is to divert attention from threats such as Mr. Chertoff outlines.

The secretary said that terrorists are focusing on people with legitimate Western European passports and no criminal record. "I have a good degree of confidence we can catch people coming in," he told lawmakers. "But I have to tell you ... there's no guarantee. And they are working very hard to slip by us."

Mr. Chertoff discussed the worry that radiological material could be smuggled into the country by small boats or private aircraft, but said he has a strategy to guard against the possibility.

Once a new administration takes over, Mr. Chertoff's term will end. But for security's sake, the transition at Homeland Security must be smooth as well.