Congress, courts push back against Bush's assertions of presidential power

[sabra]

http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2006-06-05-power-play_x.htm

Congress, courts push back against Bush's assertions of presidential power

WASHINGTON — Republican and Democratic House leaders join forces to protest the FBI search of a congressman's office. The Senate Intelligence Committee demands fuller briefings from the CIA. The Supreme Court hears a landmark case challenging presidential war powers.
After five years of a concerted White House campaign, there are tentative signs that Congress and the courts are beginning to push back against what has been the greatest expansion of presidential powers in a generation or more.

Those pushing back include some congressional Republicans and conservative jurists who have been among President Bush's chief allies. The efforts surely would intensify if Democrats won control of the House or Senate in November's elections — and with it the power to convene hearings and issue subpoenas.

"You ask, 'Is the tide shifting?' and I say, 'Maybe, maybe,' " says Senate Judiciary Chairman Arlen Specter, R-Pa., who has pushed for stronger congressional oversight of intelligence operations. "If you ask me if I still feel like a lonely voice, I would say that I feel like a member of a small chorus."

[Canuckistanian]

1. C'mon, Arlen

You haven't much time left in your career. Do something right for all that time in public office.

You're so close, sometimes.....

[Rainscents]

2. Arlen is a suck ass...

All mouth and no action.

[Canuckistanian]

4. But you gotta admit

He shows a spark of decency now and again.

[eppur_se_muova]

3. Really. If you can't go out in a blaze of glory, just go out. nt

[lovuian]

5. Its the Elections coming up and Republicans are SCREWED!!!

:rofl:

[rodeodance]

6. Specter eventually caves in to WH pressure!

[Acadia Blue]

7. I called my congressman about this, you all do the same. Bush

can use this to blackmail those who don't march and step with him