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Md. Officials Praise Raid That Killed Bin Laden

WASHINGTON (WJZ) -- Reaction to Osama bin Laden's death is pouring in from lawmakers.

Adam May has more.

There are a lot of questions as to what's next in the war in Afghanistan and some new concerns about homeland security.

The death of Osama bin Laden, planned since August, was no surprise to some lawmakers, aware of the operation for months.

Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger spoke between top secret security briefings.

"We had to get in there quick.  I believe the whole operation took 40 minutes---go in, take care of him, get his body," Ruppersberger said.

Congressman Elijah Cummings sees this as the turning point of the war on terror.

"I think the president is assessing things very carefully," Cummings said.  "It may involve getting out faster, it may involve staying a little longer, but I think people now are more likely to trust his judgment."

Meanwhile, security has been stepped up at military bases and airports.

"We still have to be ready for other attacks," Ruppersberger said. 

It was an unforgettable moment for Senator Barbara Mikulski.

"I must tell you I sense a great sense of relief.  I have the same feeling as I had when I was a little girl and we heard that Hitler died during World War II.  My response was good riddance," she said.

Late Monday afternoon, Ruppersberger had another update from the CIA.  Most of this information is classified. 

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