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I agree with the sentiment but I also recognize that there is a difference between the CIA/NSA spying on citizens and doing the same to congress in a possible e
by JamisonM 13y ago
I agree with the sentiment but I also recognize that there is a difference between the CIA/NSA spying on citizens and doing the same to congress in a possible effort to directly influence the laws and regulations that govern their behaviour. I do not think that the outrage is "manufactured" because I think it is genuine, the smarter among the Senate that support the surveillance state at least understand the principles involved here.
- bmelton 13y agoWhat rights do our legislators have that the citizenry does not?
- nickff 13y agoHere is one: Article I, Section 6, Clause 1 of the Constitution of the United States of America: "The Senators and Representatives...shall in all Cases, except Treason, Felony, and Breach of the Peace, be privileged from Arrest during their Attendance at the Session of their respective Houses, and in going to and returning from the same...."
- unclebucknasty 13y agoI think what he's saying is that Congress is tasked with overseeing these guys and ensuring that they comply with the law. So, to the extent that Feinstein actually believed the garbage she previously spewed in support of the NSA's activity--including that appropriate oversight would protect the rights of Americans--then it takes on a different meaning when these agencies attempt to circumvent their oversight. Of course, it's a flawed premise from the start, even if Feinstein were earnest. When she effectively shat all over the Fourth and bade Congress take on the role of a secret judiciary in interpreting the Constitution, she opened the door to exactly this type of behavior. It's pretty amazing to watch someone play with snakes then complain so loudly once bitten.