No Oath? No Problem
The Senate Judiciary Committee is questioning Alberto Gonzales today about the NSA's warrantless wiretapping of US citizens, but they dispensed with the formality of placing the Attorney General under oath.
Ok, I admit it — at first glance, allowing Gonzales to testify without being under oath makes Arlen Specter's hearing look like something of a sham. But actually, the committee has the best interests of the American people in mind.
Let's face it. Forcing a politician to tell the truth leads to nothing but trouble. Think how much better off the country would have been if Clinton wasn't under oath for his deposition in the Paula Jones lawsuit. He could have lied to his heart's content and that would have been the end of the story. No wrenching impeachment controversy.
Gonzales is testifying that warrantless wiretapping is perfectly legal. Senators are getting the opportunity work up some good, heady righteous indignation. Everyone is happy.
For the rest of us, just watch what you say in your overseas communications and maybe you'll be ok.
Comments
I think its more a matter of what they DO with the righteous indignation! By the way, I found you at the suggestion of Kvatch, who had positive things to say about your posts. Discerning frog.
I keep forgetting to update my links...
Posted by: Lily@LoseTheNoose | February 6, 2006 03:39 PM
Well thanks Lily (and Kvatch).
My money says this hearing goes nowhere. It's just a show.
Posted by: abi | February 6, 2006 05:11 PM