FOIA Doc: Homeland Security Monitors Drudge Report

A newly obtained document released under the Freedom of Information Act confirms that the Department of Homeland Security keeps tabs on the Drudge Report as part of its media monitoring program.

According to the document, the function of the DHS’ Media Monitoring Capability (MMC) desk is to track news websites and social media in order to gather critical information, “during normal operations, crises and extraordinary events.”

“It is essential to monitor the media’s storylines and integrate their focus into the Department’s situational awareness and operations analytical process,” states the document, adding that such work is necessary in shaping “public statements” made by the DHS.

Not a big surprise.  It wouldn’t surprise me if BIN is being monitored.  That’s what a government does.  It’s what all governments do.  This is not something you pin on Obama, I would be willing to bet that the next president and so on will monitor Drudge, among others, too.