Bush overreaches presidential prerogative :HELEN THOMAS

[jbfam4]

Bush overreaches presidential prerogative

By HELEN THOMAS
HEARST NEWSPAPERS

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/opinion/257208_thomas27.html

WASHINGTON -- We are now learning what President Bush considers to be the limits of his power -- nothing.

In recent public appearances, Bush defended his program of domestic spying without court approval, citing the inherent war powers of the presidency under the U.S. Constitution. He points to his status as commander in chief and the resolution -- approved by Congress three days after the 9/11 attacks -- authorizing him to use "all necessary and appropriate force" against terrorists. It is an obvious overreach of presidential prerogative; thin justification for what amounts to a snooping foray against Americans and others in the United States.

The administration is on shaky legal ground. Last week, the Justice Department issued a 42-page analysis declaring the president "will exercise all authority available to him, consistent with the Constitution, to protect the people of the United States." The Justice Department brief also contended that some presidential powers are "beyond congressional ability to regulate.


Bush's stand is all too reminiscent of President Nixon, who said during the unraveling of the Watergate scandal: "If a president does it, it's not illegal."


What other secret orders has Bush issued to enhance his powers and diminish ours?

[ochazuke]

1. Expansion of presidential power

When Bush arrogates unwarrented spying, he is saying not only 'trust ME', but trust all future presidents who will claim the same powers 'cause W got away with it.

[Benhurst]

2. Thanks, jbfam4, for Helen Thomas' latest. recommended