The article in the New York Times
about domestic spying has Drudge and others speculating that the 11 month delay (or rather, the ending of the delay) in publishing is timed to coincide with James Risen's book (Due out Jan 06). I think the reason is somewhat more ominous than a bunch of journalists trying to make a buck. No, the reason is nothing short of trying to influence the Senate - and it worked, too:
Senate Rejects Extension of Patriot Act
But the Patriot Act's critics got a boost from a New York Times report saying Bush authorized the National Security Agency to monitor the international phone calls and international e-mails of hundreds — perhaps thousands — of people inside the United States. Previously, the NSA typically limited its domestic surveillance to foreign embassies and missions and obtained court orders for such investigations.
This makes much more sense to me - it the timing was to support the book, I think they would have waited until a few days prior to the release, when it could have had the most effect.
As far as the Patriot Act goes, I've always been kind of a fence rider. Although I recognise the need for such powers to fight terrorism, I'm not sure where to draw the line between homeland security and individual rights. Perhaps it's drawn where it should be, but I'd be a lot happier if there were severe penalties spelled out for any that abuse it. That said, I would still be on the fence even if there had been wide-spread abuse from law enforcement. There will always be the chance for abuse due to the inescapable fact that humans are involved.
Next week should be busy as the pros & cons in the Senate duke it out.
