Obama - FISA in January, 2008 vs FISA June, 2008 [View All]

[paparush]

Here's what my candidate said back in January:
I strongly oppose retroactive immunity in the FISA bill.

Ever since 9/11, this Administration has put forward a false choice between the liberties we cherish and the security we demand.

The FISA court works. The separation of power works. We can trace, track down and take out terrorists while ensuring that our actions are subject to vigorous oversight, and do not undermine the very laws and freedom that we are fighting to defend.

No one should get a free pass to violate the basic civil liberties of the American people - not the President of the United States, and not the telecommunications companies that fell in line with his warrantless surveillance program. We have to make clear the lines that cannot be crossed.

That is why I am co-sponsoring Senator Dodd's amendment to remove the immunity provision. Secrecy must not trump accountability. We must show our citizens – and set an example to the world – that laws cannot be ignored when it is inconvenient.

A grassroots movement of Americans has pushed this issue to the forefront. You have come together across this country. You have called upon our leaders to adhere to the Constitution. You have sent a message to the halls of power that the American people will not permit the abuse of power – and demanded that we reclaim our core values by restoring the rule of law.

It's time for Washington to hear your voices, and to act. I share your commitment to this cause, and will stand with you in the fights to come. And when I am President, the American people will once again be able to trust that their government will stand for justice, and will defend the liberties that we hold so dear as vigorously as we defend our security.

http://thehill.com/markos-moulitsas/scare-tactics-2008-01-23.html
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x4267654

Then, he ends up NOT CASTING A VOTE in February, 2008 (He, Clinton, and Graham (R-SC) were the only three non-voting members. I know, I know, he and Hillary were busy campaigning)
http://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=110&session=2&vote=00020

With regard to the current Bill, my candidate had this to say:
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,".

He did not say "revise" the program. He did not say "roll back" the program.

Where is my candidate's courage? Where is my candidate's fire? Why can't he stare McCain in the eye and say boldy, "This is UCONSTITUTIONAL"?

I'm losing hope.

Help me DU.