Rapaire,

I think the period in question provides the answer to your question. 1979 to 1989 steadily improving dialogue with the Soviet Union. I989 to September 11th, 2001 - No obvious, clear cut threat to US.

Post 11th September, 2001 - America itself shown to be vulnerable to attacks by any international terrorist group. In the light of the attacks of 11th September, 2001, I thought that all US intelligence and security agencies had benefited from increased funding.