The Pew Charitable Trusts

The office of governor is powerful. But when they assumed office, none of the 50 men and women who occupy that office could have anticipated the kinds of problems and challenges they have faced since September 11. From time to time, STATELINE.ORG will publish the reflections of governors on their role in America's War with Terrorism. . We begin with Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee.

Huckabee, a 46-year old Republican former televangelist, says he's still focused on normal things governors deal with like the economy and education. But he and other governors are also "now forced to think almost in military terms about warding off possible attacks."

Homeland security was something the federal government was largely responsible for in the past. But as the closest link to the American people, state and local leaders are now being called on to do much more than anyone - voters and politicians alike - thought they would ever have to do.

"Americans feel vulnerable as never before," Huckabee said in an email interview with STATELINE.ORG. "The front lines of battle no longer are staffed solely with professional soldiers on foreign soil. The soldiers now include the policemen, firemen and emergency medical workers at the state, county and city levels.

"We're devoting a lot of time and a huge amount of resources to preparing for acts of terrorism. We also must deal with the panic of citizens who believe every white powder is anthrax...Our citizens realize government does play an important role, and they expect us to perform. They not only want us to solve problems. They also want their leaders to reassure them it's OK to travel, shop and otherwise resume their normal lives."