Billboard Depicts Fire Cloud Over Houston

HOUSTON -- A billboard went up along the Southwest Freeway depicting the Bayou City as a terrorist target. It is a bright orange fire cloud over Houston.

It's a campaign billboard for Brian Klock, a Republican candidate for U.S. Rep. District 22.

"I don't want people scared. I don't want anyone upset. I want people to be aware," said Klock.

Klock is a latecomer to the political scene.

Spending roughly $10,000 on the billboard, the reserve navy commander said he stands by his platform that Houston is a target for terrorism.

"I used to read the threat. I knew what was going on locally right here in Houston. I believe it is a real threat," he said.

The billboard depicts Houston's economic heart under attack -- the ship channel, refineries and the skyline all seen through the scope of a gun.

"It's a depiction of a worse case scenario I want people to know it's out there," Klock said.

Reaction From Other District 22 Candidates

From Candidate Kevyn Bazzy

"Mr. Klock has correctly pointed out that Houston is a potential target of terrorism. Over the past few years, there have been several instances of individuals detained for various reasons who had video surveillance of Houston landmarks on their camera's.

As an Army Reserve Intelligence Officer and civilian Intelligence Analyst who deployed to Iraq, I am uniquely aware of the National Security issues we face as a nation.

I am the only candidate in the race for Congressional District 22 who has served in Iraq and I have seen first hand the devastation and destruction that acts of terrorism bring. The impact is much greater than the actual act as it transcends into the families of those who are killed or injured by these senseless acts. We must not allow ourselves to become complacent just because we have not had an attack in the United States since 9/11.

National Security is not a part-time job for me, it is my career. I encourage citizens in the 22nd District to visit my website and call or email me any questions you may have as you make your decision on who to support on March 4th.

We must be vigilant in our defense of this nation or be prepared to live with the consequences of our inaction."

From Candidate Cynthia Dunbar

"When I filed for office, I committed to run my campaign based solely upon my own strengths and credentials and to never campaign on the lack or weaknesses of other candidates. However, I never promised to not come to the aid of other candidates when I perceive they have been misunderstood. I know Brian Klock to be a patriot who has served our great Nation for over 27 years. Whatever the effect of this billboard, I can assure you that Mr. Klock's intentions were for the benefit of our city as well as our nation as-a-whole. The factual reality of Houston being a terrorist target is something we must face in order to keep ourselves protected. Regardless of how unsettling images such as these might be, better to see them on a billboard, than to witness them first-hand."

From Candidate Pete Olson

"We Navy guys tend to lead the debate on National Security. Brian's heart is in the right place. Houston is a major terrorist target. Our country does need to focus on port, border, and airline security -- but I don't think scaring people is the right way to get this accomplished."

From Candidate Ryan Rowley

"It is true that Houston is a prime terrorist target, but this billboard is more of an attempt to get political attention. There are four of us that are running for CD22 that have military experience (Talton, Bazzy, Klock, and myself).

Out of the four of us, I have the most experience in both the military side and in defense contracting and I have children who are and have been in the military including one that is currently deployed. CD22 needs someone who not only understands National Security and Defense, which I do; they need someone more rounded with more depth like myself. Sitting up in Congress is nothing like being in command of troops in the field.

You need the dedication and the ability to analyze complex issues that span far deeper than just Homeland Security. Congress was intended as the entry point for elected service for our country. With its two year term, The US House of Representatives is to represent the values of the people, not the political elite. I and my supporters are tired of the political shock tactics and of the games that politicians play. Let’s get back to discussing real solutions for real problems so real people can select the candidate that will truly represent them."

From Candidate Jim Squier

"I have enjoyed getting to know him because of the service history that he has brought to this race. I listen to what he says because I believe he has the experience and perception to back up his observations."