NSA's Warrantless Wiretapping

The issue is the failure to secure warrants to make searches not as Bush ardently attempts to claim the he is committed to making the searches. No one - NO ONE in their right mind is going to deny the governments ability to make searches within the U.S. pursuant to the issuance of a warrant. The original intent of the founders was to ensure that there were checks and balances on the searches of one's person or property. This proscription was intentionally broad and has been whittled down over 200+ years of jurisprudence. It continues to be a rich area of controversy. Yet despite the fact that the courts have been incredibly deferential to the government, the government is constantly seeking to expand its authority. The so-called Terrorist Surveilence Program is merely the latest, perhaps most insidious attempt to expand governmental reach. Any claims of adequate oversight in this area are specious. C'mon George get a warrant. when the president defines the debate with straw men he easy disposes of, he has the ostensible support of the American people. If the debate was addressed honestly and clearly, few would accept the bald power grab. Even if we assume that this administration will use this "power" in a measured fashion, such a power is subject to significant abuse.