I am sure that there are some zealots that are abusing their power. The Clinton's used the IRS for example. Even Lincoln sent a dissenter to Canada.
In my opinion, the bottom line is that the need to "spy on Terrorists" still remains. If we gain valuable information is it not worth it? If we can prevent another 9-11 is that not worth it?
You said existing law gives plenty of authority is used properly. That is my point. They want to change existing law. The senators that want to change the law have forgotten that they have discussed this with the President on a dozen occassions. This is existing law
As far as Barak Obama's statement is concerned; I don't know of an Arab American family that has been abducted because of their country of origin. (If they were truely Citizens, then they were done a huge wrong.) I will willingly help those those that seek it, not those that demand it. I volunteer to adult reading programs, Big-Brother etc. These people want their lives to be better and are willing to do something on their own. I do not believe in being my brothers keeper. I will volunteer to be their coach, their mentor, their reading teacher, their friend, if they want. I am much less likely to do anything if they demand something.
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Originally Posted by spence
I think this is the problem...that's not really what this argument is about.
We have a process to ensure that exceptions to civil liberties (i.e. wiretaps, snooping email etc...) are applied lawfully to all people. The laws for non-citizens may be different, but we have no idea who's being watched do we?
Bush is asking the American people to let the policy makers judge who's a suspect and when their civil rights should be infringed in an effort to provide safety.
If history is any guide, then it's clear the Government has a track record of misusing similar authority under many administrations. Nixon illegally spied on Vietnam war protesters, even detaining them at times to silence dissent.
Even if Bush's intentions are good, it's a slippery slope they are well aware of. Existing law gives plenty of authority if used properly.
The old "I'm not worried because I'm not doing anything wrong" argument doesn't really cut it. I think Barak Obama said it best:
Others are looking out for you, but are you returning the favor?
-spence
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