Jack, what law makes it illegal to talk to a known terrorist? Sure, if there was evidence that you planned an attack then that is a crime. Hypothetically speaking, you could have a relative or old friend who is a terrorist who you talk to on the phone. That’s not a crime. So if the government doesn’t create special powers to listen in on suspicious calls it would be illegal for them to do so. Or if they had to obtain a warrant in advance it would be too late.
Given some of Bush’s tactics that you describe I don’t blame you questioning his commitment to the constitution, but that’s because I know we disagree about the quality of his character. You probably see “national security” as a convenient excuse, but given circumstances this may be a legitimate reason, especially given the loose tongues of some elected officials.
