First let's make sure ultra conservatives can spy on anyone at any time for any reason. Then let's make sure they give all the sugar plums to their buddies. Think we can get it cheaper at Wal Mart?

This is an important story that is not well reported in this article. A lot of information is thrown at the reader, but we don't get an overall sense of why intelligence contracting is going on. Is it because of Congressional caps, or are there interests within the DIA wanting to outsource to their friends?

This is even more interesting when combined with a Pincus piece I posted from today's Washington Post that says contractors are becoming a crutch for our government. He seems to be digging into this issue and exposing some interesting stuff. Scary, but interesting.

Pincus is thoughtful and good as always...however, what he does not cover, and what most reporters do not cover is WHY contractors get so much work...it has to do with irrational, short notice mandates from Congress--which is not sexy to report on--as well as the well known fact that traditional intelligence people in the govt have NO incentive to work hard and no incentive to produce information...and can't be fired. Contractors however can be forced to work or be fired...but as I said, that is not as sexy as "contractors taking over the Defense Department!!!"

Bush gets unlimited spying power and he OUTSOURCES IT? For a Billion $ over 5 years?? He's got 16 months in Office! He's determined to destroy this country by Jan 1, 2009. I think he'll get the job done with time to spare.