The Truths We Hold: An American Journey

Chapter 9 focuses on national security issues, particularly cybersecurity and climate change. Harris recounts her experiences on the Senate Intelligence Committee and discusses various threats to American security. She explains how the 2016 Russian interference in the US election brought the committee’s work into the spotlight.

Harris details the committee’s findings regarding Russian cyber operations against US election infrastructure. She highlights vulnerabilities in voting systems, including outdated machines and the lack of paper records in some states. To illustrate these risks, Harris describes a demonstration in which a professor easily hacked a voting machine, changing the outcome of a simulated election.

The chapter then moves to broader cybersecurity concerns. Harris discusses potential threats to critical infrastructure, such as power plants and transportation systems. She cites examples of cyberattacks by various state actors, including Russia, Iran, North Korea, and China, as well as non-state criminal organizations. Harris advocates for improved cybersecurity measures, including upgrading technology, investing in innovation, and developing a comprehensive cyber doctrine. She mentions her efforts to introduce legislation to protect US elections from foreign interference.

The narrative then shifts to climate change as a national security threat. Harris recounts questioning CIA director nominee Mike Pompeo about his stance on climate change, emphasizing its importance to national security.