Following the September 11, 2001 attacks, which involved the hijacking of four commercial airplanes and the subsequent collapse of the World Trade Center towers in New York City, U.S. President George W. Bush declared that he immediately became a "wartime president." This statement reflected the dramatic shift in the nation's focus from peacetime governance to a new era of security and military action in response to the unprecedented attacks. Presidential historian Doug Brinkley has since examined how the role of the chief executive has transformed since that fateful day. He notes that the presidency has taken on a more centralized and security-focused role, with the executive branch playing a larger role in shaping foreign policy and responding to global threats. The events of 9/11 marked a turning point in how the United States approached national security, leading to significant changes in both domestic and international policies. In the years following 9/11, the U.S. government expanded its intelligence capabilities, launched military operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, and enacted new laws to enhance homeland security. These actions reflected a broader shift in how the presidency was perceived and operated, with the leader often taking a more active role in both military and diplomatic affairs. Brinkley's analysis highlights how the presidency has become more involved in global affairs and national defense since 9/11. While this evolution has brought about greater security measures, it has also raised questions about the balance between security and civil liberties, as well as the extent of executive power in times of crisis.