The 2013 elections in Kenya brought controversy due to the words of the United States Assistant Secretary of State at the time, Johnnie Carson. While not endorsing a candidate, he stated that "actions have consequences," implying opposition to the challenger, Uhuru Kenyatta. The Kenyatta presidency was notably cold towards the United States prior to the terrorist attack on Kenya's Westgate mall. The terrorist attack led to more cooperation, as Kenya focused more on counterterror operations.