But the tensions continue. Bush aides still don’t want the commission to delve further into CIA and FBI failures. They suggested it focus on new areas like border security and visa issues; they also want the panel to investigate the “role of Congress” in overseeing the work of the intelligence agencies. Another potential flash point: the White House’s refusal to turn over documents showing briefings the intelligence community gave Bush prior to 9-11. One aide described the documents as the “crown jewels” of executive privilege. “That’s the kind of stuff we’d never give up,” said the aide. Those positions could set up a new confrontation with family members. They say they are more furious than ever over new details about how the CIA lost track of two of the 9-11 hijackers who flew to the United States from a terrorist summit in Malaysia. (The lapse was first reported by NEWSWEEK.) “I never want to hear the phrase ’lessons learned’ again,” said Sally Regenhard, whose firefighter son was killed in the World Trade Center. “I want people brought up on charges of malfeasance.” Bush aides say they want to work “constructively” with the families to ensure a productive inquiry. Discussions have begun about possible candidates to head up the panel. Among the top suggestions: former senators Bob Dole and Sam Nunn.
