My Reply To Senator Martinez
Hello Senator Martinez,
I appreciate your prompt response on this issue. You always seem to respond quickly and effectively; I respect that. I have no doubt you work tirelessly to further what many would believe to be in our country’s best interest. I do understand why many people feel this legislation should pass, however, when targeting someone reasonably believed to be outside the U.S, is it not possible that the person on the other end of the communication is indeed inside the US? This is my concern, monitoring communications of citizens of the US, without the stipulation of probable cause. I also have concern with the broad approval of breaking current law. Although I disagree with this legislation, at least it is being presented as such. For this action
to take place prior to legislation being passed, is illegal is it not? Wouldn’t it constitute conspiracy for a group or person to suggest breaking, known, US law? I understand you have a law degree, how do you feel about the legality of the US Government encouraging US companies to break US law? I understand some people claim we are at war, I remain unconvinced, but for the sake of argument, I will concede. Even if this is the case, should all civil liberties be sacrifice to the alter of “the war on terror”? If no, my question is, where do we draw the line? I’m not necessarily, terribly worried about the current administration. However, to set this type of precedent, is a scary proposition. How can either of us know who will be president in 100 years? By altering this law now, you give this ability to all future administrations right? I believe this is one reason why the Constitution tends to “error on the side of caution” when liberty is concerned. For the administration to give de facto approval, to break the law, to certain telcoms, is stripping this country of any sense of responsibility for our actions. I’m sure you already realize this, but the government is a body of people whom should be admired. We should be able to trust our government to set proper examples by not breaking the law; among the many other concerns this type of action brings up. Honestly, I don’t think I have to list them here, I’m sure you already know the implications of this legislation.
I do believe you are acting in what you see is the best interest of the country; it is hard for me to say I disagree with that, even though I do disagree with the position itself. However, I would plead to you to consider, that protecting America, resides in much more than the immediate physical danger. If we lose what America itself stands for, we will have lost America itself, even though our physical lives might remain intact. In my opinion, the main thing that makes this country special, is our liberty. Once removed, it will be nearly impossible to replace.
I appreciate your time.
Respectfully,
Dave
