Remember Buffalo - April 2004

The eaves dropping/wire tapping -gate is getting some play again. I've shared my thoughts here. I respect the right of the President to do whatever is necessary to keep our borders safe. I also believe he could have done exactly what he did, within the law, rather then skirting it, but I won't getting into a pissing contest with rabid Righties about the legalities.

What has always concerned me, is the deception that emanates from this administration, which makes it difficult for this hawkish moderate to defend his actions, at time of war.

When a Democratic President lies about sex, that is an impeachable offense, but when the current President lies about denying individuals their Constitutional protections, that is acceptable in the interest of national security. So when you hear the GOP spin, and the administration defend what some are calling an illegal action, remember what President George W. Bush said in Buffalo, on the campaign trail, in April 2004. And understand the context, he is offering this information, not even responding to a specific question:

"(A)ny time you hear the United States government talking about wiretap, it requires -- a wiretap requires a court order. Nothing has changed, by the way. When we're talking about chasing down terrorists, we're talking about getting a court order before we do so. It's important for our fellow citizens to understand, when you think Patriot Act, constitutional guarantees are in place when it comes to doing what is necessary to protect our homeland, because we value the Constitution."

Just read that over a few times, and then review the facts. I have already been accused of emboldening the enemy by not unconditionally supporting the Administration, but doesn't a President whose own words can't be trusted embolden them even more. If not, maybe my standards are just to high for the leader of the free world.

Flash