American Civil Liberties Union : ACLU Thanks Senators Who Stood for the Constitution

There has never been a more urgent need to preserve fundamental privacy protections and our system of checks and balances than the need we face today, as illegal government spying and government-sponsored torture programs transcend the bounds of law in the name of national security. Learn more about ACLU's National Security Project (NSP), which advocates for national security policies that are consistent with the Constitution, the rule of law, and fundamental human rights.

ACLU Thanks Senators Who Stood for the Constitution (7/9/2008)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: 202-675-2312, media@dcaclu.org

Washington, DC – After a brutal loss on the FISA Amendments Act today in the Senate, the American Civil Liberties Union expressed gratitude to the senators who cast their vote against the bill.

The following can be attributed to Caroline Fredrickson, director of the ACLU Washington Legislative Office:

“There are a few senators who deserve praise for defending the Constitution today. We applaud Senators Feingold, Leahy, Dodd, and Cardin for their tireless efforts to improve this dismal legislation. We especially missed the presence of the recovering Senator Kennedy today; his speech in February was a high point in this legislative battle.

“We’re also encouraged by Senator Reid’s vote against the bill and his vow to address these expanded surveillance powers before the bill sunsets. Senator Reid’s suggestion of revisiting the FISA Amendments Act during the debate over reauthorization of the USA Patriot Act provisions is a welcome one.

“Freedom took a hit today – when this bill is enacted, Americans on American soil will no longer be alone in their own living rooms – Uncle Sam may be there too, listening in without a warrant.”

For more information visit: www.aclu.org/fisa

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