Relevant Note: I am proud to serve as Chris Dodd's Internet Director
Well, the moment of truth appears to be quickly creeping upon us.
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has made it clear earlier today that he intends to disregard Senator Dodd's hold on FISA. And because he chose the path of least resistance for it's passage, it appears we'll see a filibuster next week.
Chris Dodd will lead that effort, but he can't speak forever and will need to lateral the ball at some point if we are going to sustain a filibuster for more than 8 hours or so.
You may, at this point, recall all the breathless press releases from candidates saying they would "support a filibuster." I didn't exactly know what that meant at the time, but it sure was celebrated. The intent to most was rather clear, they would filibuster with Dodd if necessary.
Joe Biden
San Francisco: "Will you join Sen. Chris Dodd's hold and proposed filibuster on any FISA bill that includes retroactive immunity for telecoms?"
Sen. Joe Biden: "Yes."
Barack Obama
"To be clear: Barack will support a filibuster of any bill that includes retroactive immunity for telecommunications companies."
Hillary Clinton
"I am troubled by the concerns that have been raised by the recent legislation reported out of the Intelligence Committee...As matters stand now, I could not support it and I would support a filibuster absent additional information coming forward that would convince me differently."
Hopefully we can take them at their word and they will return to support a filibuster. I know it's an inconvenience for the campaign (as it is for ours), but the press releases were sure good for the effort when they were sent out.
But just in case, we've built out yet another citizen whip count tool.
You can call or email the Senators who have pledged to support a filibuster by clicking this link.
So, here we are ... A mere days from the next fight in the battle to restore our Constitution.
You don't demonstrate leadership in the footnotes of a press release, or parroting responses from focus groups.
Leadership is demonstrated through action.
Who else will lead?
Tim
Update [2007-12-14 15:23:20 by ttagaris]: Bradley Whitford asks folks to call their Senators and participate in the filibuster.