[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today joined Senate and House Democrats in offering a plan for making the nation safer. Durbin and other Democratic leaders unveiled their plan for Real Security to rebuild our military; equip and train our first responders; provide needed benefits to our troops and veterans; fully man and equip our National Guard; promote alternative fuels and reduce dependence on foreign oil; and restore Americans’ confidence in their government’s ability to respond in the face of a terrorist attack or natural disaster. “Americans feel less secure today because the Bush budget shortchanges our police and firefighters; refuses to provide the necessary resources to secure our ports and chemical and nuclear plants; and fails to offer a plan for victory in Iraq,” Durbin said. “It’s time for a new direction for America’s security. Americans are ready for a change and Democrats will lead that effort." The Real Security plan is a comprehensive set of policies including fully following the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission to secure our borders, our ports, our airports, and our mass transit systems; to make America energy independent by 2020; and to address the nuclear threats of Iran and North Korea. Durbin also noted that the Real Security plan will guarantee that American troops have the equipment and training that they need before going to battle and the benefits they were promised when they return home. Additionally, the plan calls for the strengthening of the National Guard to ensure that it is fully manned and equipped to meet its missions at home or abroad. The Real Security plan would also ensure that 2006 is a year of significant transition to full Iraqi sovereignty, with the Iraqis assuming primary responsibility for securing and governing their country and with the responsible redeployment of U.S. forces. “For two years, the Bush Administration has promised Americans that Iraqi soldiers would stand up and fight for their own country. The rhetoric from the White House does not match the sad reality on the ground in Iraq. Like the American people, Democrats support our troops, and we must hold the Administration accountable until they keep their promises in Iraq so our soldiers can come back home,” Durbin said.