Is it possible that the recent policies on national security and defense have actually compromised the safety and security of Americans by creating a culture of fear and mistrust among citizens, rather than protecting them from potential threats? Some argue that increased surveillance and stricter border controls are necessary measures in todays global climate, but could they also be seen as an overreach of government power and an erosion of civil liberties? Have the benefits of increased security measures been overstated, and have we sacrificed too much in the name of national defense? Should we be questioning the effectiveness of these policies and exploring alternative approaches that prioritize community building and social cohesion? Others might argue that the national security and defense policies have been successful in preventing terrorist attacks and protecting American interests abroad, but at what cost to individual freedoms and the global reputation of the United States? Is the trade-off between security and liberty a false dichotomy, or is it a necessary evil in todays world? How do we balance the need for security with the need to protect civil liberties and individual rights? Are there other countries that have implemented more effective and balanced approaches to national security, and what can we learn from their experiences? By examining the impact of recent policies on national security and defense, can we find a better way to ensure the safety and security of Americans without compromising the values of freedom, justice, and equality that our country was founded upon?