Here’s another example of the problem that comes with trusting one individual to restrain government force.

Guess who said the following:

Given the grave threats that we face, our national security agencies must have the capability to gather intelligence and track down terrorists before they strike, while respecting the rule of law and the privacy and civil liberties of the American people. . . .

What sounds like George W. Bush actually comes from a statement issued today by Barack Obama, in which he explains why he voted in favor of the compromise wiretapping bill.

Obama went on to say:

After months of negotiation, the House today passed a compromise that, while far from perfect, is a marked improvement over last year’s Protect America Act. . . It does, however, grant retroactive immunity, and I will work in the Senate to remove this provision so that we can seek full accountability for past offenses. [Note: According to Salon, "Harry Reid is already acknowledging that this 'effort' is going to fail and is just pure political theater."]

It is not all that I would want. But given the legitimate threats we face, providing effective intelligence collection tools with appropriate safeguards is too important to delay. So I support the compromise, but do so with a firm pledge that as President, I will carefully monitor the program, review the report by the Inspectors General, and work with the Congress to take any additional steps I deem necessary to protect the lives -– and the liberty –- of the American people.

But Senator, what happens if John McCain is elected president?  Then you’ll have voted in favor of a bill that you fully admit just further withers away our civil liberties.  Well done.