In this most timely and important book, Matt A. Mayer uses the principle of federalism to present a compelling case that the best way to protect America from terrorists is to get the power out of Washington and into the hands of governors, mayors, and the men and women on the front lines in our communities. Homeland Security and Federalism: Protecting America from Outside the Beltway takes the reader from America's Colonial period to the inner workings of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It shows what worked historically—and why the approach taken after September 11 failed to heed the lessons of history.

Mayer develops a rational risk model to guide where limited resources should be allocated so they will lead to less pork and more protection. He then systematically builds the case that states and localities are uniquely suited to lead efforts on terrorism preparedness, disaster management, illegal immigration, counterterrorism, and community resiliency.