Monday, December 17, 2007

Democrats caving on surveillance. Again.

How can this be happening?

The Senate appears poised to hand the White House another victory with a measure that would make permanent an expansion of government spy powers and shield phone companies from liability for assisting government eavesdropping.

With floor consideration scheduled to start today, Democrats are split on how to cut back on the administration's surveillance powers. The only option that appears to have sufficient backing is a bipartisan measure the White House has blessed. Opponents of the White House-backed bill are increasingly predicting a White House win.

If the White House prevails this week, it will be the latest example of President Bush's ability to outmaneuver his opponents in Congress, especially on controversial matters of national security, despite his weakened public support.
This is insane.

How can these people believe there will be no negative consequences from giving the Executive branch unchecked authority to spy on American citizens? How can they think this president, or any other, will be immune from the temptation to abuse such power?

With the exception of noble Chris Dodd, where are our Democratic presidential candidates on this? Why won't they step up and lead?

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