Congress must protect 'soft' terrorist targets

Our public spaces face an unacceptable terrorist threat. Though terrorism-related casualties are comparatively low, their cumulative impact is corrosive to the public happiness.

And the corrosion is growing.

Manchester, London, San Bernardino and Orlando.

Islamic State has inspired a toxic but potent rise of terrorism. It's a terrorism that sees streets not symbols and gatherings, not government offices, as its primary targets.

Fortunately, we are in a somewhat better position than are our European allies. People who go to large and medium-size public events in this country are nearly always screened with metal detectors. Event-goers can also expect their bags to be opened and inspected at the entry point.