Thanks "Mavericks"
In one of the worst ideas to come out of this NSA scandal yet, the so-called Senate Mavericks (Hagel, Snowe, and Graham) along with Senator Dewine introduced the Terrorist Surveillance Act of 2006, which among other things would provide the President with authority to conduct electronic surveillance without a court order for up to 45 days if its in the best interests of the American people. He can renew the surveillance if he deems it necessary (again) to protect the American people.
I guess that settles the NSA scandal question of whether it was legal or not for the President to have engaged in this behavior. It will be legal NOW. I think Snowe, Hagel and Graham feel infinitely better about themselves already.
I have one question. If what was happening was legal, why do we need this new piece of legislation?
Hat tip, Glenn Greenwald, who is doing great commentary on this.
posted by Katinula | 8:23 AM
2 Comments:
Here is the answer to your question: Many people have doubts that it is legal, so this will end those doubts.
This is the sort of legislation I feared we might get out of this scandal, with potentially a lot more lattitude for abuse than the President's program.
I suppose that the fact that the abuse will certainly be legal should make me feel better.
I dont see how it will end doubts. The law didn't exist before now (if passed). Actions before are still illegal. Its the height of whitewashing the past.
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