Concern about civil liberties for the average American has risen sharply over the last decade since the 9/11 attacks. But Americans want government to err on the side of protecting them against possible terrorist attacks.

If 9/11 had never occurred, we would all be better off, but the biggest economic winners might have been the world's Muslims.

2002 was the year the racial appeal stopped working.

Majority back Bush plan for Homeland Security Department.

America'smost distressing problem is the administration"s failure to define America"s national interests in the war against terrorism with clarity andresolve.

President Bush's approval soared from 51 percent in early-September 2001 to 86 percent immediately after Sept. 11, but today, he stands at 65 percent.

In a handful of recent polls, President Bush's approval rating dropped below 70 percent for the first time since Sept. 11.

Americans are more positive about the government in Washington.