More domestic spying issues at NSA
The New York Times has an important story in today's editions about the domestic spying program at the NSA, reporting that the super-secret Maryland-based agency "intercepted private email messages and phone calls of Americans in recent months on a scale that went beyond the broad legal limits" set by Congress last year.
The Times is reporting that the agency told Congress that it had trouble complying with the law, leading to "overcollection" of information.
On a related note, the Times also discloses that the NSA "tried to wiretap a member of Congress without a warrant," after obtaining information that the unidentified representative "was in contact" with an extremist with terrorist ties as part of a Congressional delegation to the Middle East in 2005 and 2006.
The developments provide a major national security test for the Obama administration, and will raise questions about an agency that prefers to operate with as little public attention as possible.
Comments
That Congressman was probably Alcee Hastings. He is a disgraced impeached judge. The impeachment hearing was demanded by Rep. John Conyers.
With the DHS Napolitano report on "rightwing extremists" there will be many more "single issue" people watched and spied on. Those who oppose abortion and illegal immigration. Also those who support states rights or vote for third party candidates.
The paranoia of this administration will continue this and double speak that they are not.
Just like ending the war in Iraq and closing GITMO.. (in a year)
Posted by: Fed Up | April 16, 2009 12:49 PM
Some free country we are, if anyone believes tTHAT BULL____ they have their head stuck way down in the sand!!! And don't even try to get me started on FREE SPEECH!!
Posted by: Mike B. | April 18, 2009 7:28 AM
Where is the public outrage? The front page story? The breaking news on CNN?
Oh wait, there's a Democrat in the White House, the Democrats control the Senate, the Democrats control the House.....
hmmm......If there was so much outrage over the Bush Administration doing these things, why not the outrage that it has happened under Obama's watch?
Change.....
Posted by: Paul | April 18, 2009 11:02 PM