The New York Times uncovers the simple plan the Bush administration used to trick the hapless Democrats on the Hill into giving Alberto Gonzales approval power over NSA domestic spying. How did they do it? They got DNI Mike McConnell to issue a warning: the NSA is picking up 75% fewer intercepts of al-Qaida communications, because of the FISA court's dreaded 72 hour rule for granting warrants (72 hours AFTER the surveillance begins, that is...) Then, throw in a few handy dandy terror scares ("bombs in the cheese! Bombs in the cheese! Run for you liiiiiives...!!!) and presto! Democrats fold like cheap suit. Russ Feingold and Jane Harman explain their party's inherent weakness:
The White House, Mr. Feingold said Friday in an interview, “has identified the one major remaining weakness in the Democratic Party, and that’s its unwillingness to stand up to the administration when it’s making a power grab regarding terrorism and national security.”
“They have figured out that all they have to do is start talking about an imminent terrorist threat, back it up against a Congressional recess, and they know the Democrats will cave,” he added.
Representative Jane Harman, Democrat of California, said the White House “very skillfully played the fear card.” I don't know about skillfully. Clearly you don't have to be too bright to put one over on these idiots.
Labels: Bush administration, Democrats, domestic spying, FISA, NSA syping, warrantless wiretaps |
