By Laura Strickler
Washington, DC – The Arab satellite channel Al Jazeera released a new audio tape from Osama Bin Laden Thursday. Bin Laden says he's preparing future terrorist attacks against the United States. He also offered what he called a "long-term truce" to Americans, but he didn't specify any conditions.
Area Congresswoman Louise Slaughter sees Bin Laden's offer as a sign of weakness.
"I think that he wants to get out of it," Slaughter said. "I think was he's losing support or he's losing control."
Bin Laden also said the absence of an attack on the US since 9/11 is not due to increased US security measures. White House spokesman Scott McClellan disputed that claim and said military actions abroad and law enforcement efforts at home have been important factors in preventing attacks. Slaughter says there's no way to know for sure if the government has prevented attacks.
"The Homeland Security Agency has not been terribly impressive," Slaughter said. "But after spending about $40 billion, we're somewhat better off. I certainly hope so."
Slaughter says she does not think the Bid Laden tape will affect the debate in Washington on domestic spying.