Bush allowed NSA to spy within USA without warrants

[Hurin_Rules]

Then the issue is with Congress not the President. The War Powers Act of 1973 and the Authorization of the use of Force granted to the president by Congress to pursue aggressive action against any terrorist organization.

Are you then arguing, Redleg, that the authorization of the use of force also includes the authorization of warrantless wiretaps on US citizens within the USA? Because this is the very argument that the non-partisan congressional research center just called into question as resting on shaky legal grounds:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/10741787/

Criticising another because they don't take your view on things does not bode well, some of what you wrote does not fullfil the obligation to argue the subject, instead is argueing against the individual.

What I said was perhaps a bit harsh, but not out of bounds, and I stand by it. I'm not criticizing him for having an opinion different than mine. I EXPECT to disagree with Pindar on almost everything; that's why I enjoy discussing things with him so much. But by the same token, Pindar is an expert in this field. While this means we all get to benefit from his expertise, it also means that he and has an advantage over all other posters in this regard. He can present things as fact that are controversial, even radical, within the field, and most of us won't notice until long afterwards, or after extensive research. This leads to readers coming away from a discussion with views that are not very informed or objective because of their lack of legal training. This is disappointing.

What I'm saying in a nutshell is this: if you have a particular field of expertise, don't use it against other posters, use it to enlighten other posters. Give your position, by all means. But do have the good grace and courtesy to note significant contrary opinions, and if issues are in dispute, then please note that, rather than presenting only one side as incontrovertible fact. It will help us all make much more informed opinions, rather than simply relishing in flaming one's political opponents.