Like many of you I have been reading a lot about FISA and what this means for the future of a constitutional government in America. Many people I have come to respect hold conflicting views about where the congressional capitulation will lead. Since I don't have any special understanding about what the most recent developments portend, I will try to stick to things I do know a little about. More after the jump.
- The good old days weren't really that good.
Many people here seem to believe that the Fourth amendment was in good shape prior to the current POTUS. Sadly the fourth amendment has been whithering away for some time. Any doubt of that was dispelled for all the world to see when F. Lee Bailey cross examined LA Police Detective Phillip Vanatter about his warrantless seach of OJ Simpson's residence. I doubt many who watched the testimony believed the detective's statements that he only entered the residence to ensure the safety of those inside, but the evidence discovered was still admitted into court. Someday one of the smart lawyers around here will have to explain to me why we needed a voting rights act when we had the 15th amendment, or how the fourth amendment can be reduced without going through the amendment process, (or even why two men who both file thier taxes in Texas can be elected President and co vice-president).
- Does Obama really think this will protect him from Republican attacks?
I doubt it. Everything I've seen from Barack tends to support the contention that he is a very smart and talented leader with an uncanny way of seeing how things will play out. Personally the only explanation that makes sense to me is that Barack is more worried about making enemies of the telecommunication industry. That certainly seems a more realistic threat to his campaign than 'Rovian' attack ads.
- Is this really just CYA for Dems and Repubs since they both fully knew?
This one worries me, not because I would be dissillusioned by Democratic lawmakers selling us out, but because this is a fight we could easily win. From 9/11 tp $5 gas everything that happens in America is perceived to be the President's responsibility, and in politics perception is reality.
OK I'm done venting.
Update: I guess I should have included this
bitch fit:
-Also can just be "BF" if you can't curse in front of certain people.
-Made famous by the Wayans Brothers comedy "White Chicks."
Ex. "I am SO FREAK-IN' PISSED! I think I'm gonna have a bitch fit!"