The first step toward resolving a problem is to define that problem, and the various parts that make it up. This is the first time I have seen any mass media outlet even try to put their arms around the problem, rather than piecemeal the situation. This list is hardly exhaustive, but it serves as a point of departure for discussion, debate and action -- to either affirm the Administration views or repeal them. We have never had debate before. We have never had the option of looking at alternatives. The Times has given America a starting point for discussion. From debate and discussion may come a balanced approach, and law that honors America's history and Constitution rather than setting up a political monarchy under the title ... More »

An important call for the restoration of human rights, civil liberties, and justice In America. Pragmatic and concise in content and style.

Story quote: "The new Democratic majorities in Congress can block the sort of noxious measures that the Republican majority rubber-stamped. But preventing new assaults on civil liberties is not nearly enough." Political reality check: While I applaude this article and support the recommended actions it sets forth, the reality is this, Democrats have a one member majority in the Senate and a President with a veto pen that would be hostile to giving up any of this territory won in the first six years in office. Each issue should be addressed however, with the hope that enough republicans will cross party lines and in the worst case, if only for the record, so political gains can be made in the federal government to allow these ... More »

This is a persuasive editorial arguing that Congress must roll back many of the restrictions on liberty imposed either by law or fiat in the name of fighting terrorism. While some of the claimed excesses such as the overuse of classification are assertions absent much supporting evidence, most are clear cut violations of basic human rights or international law. This is excellent journalism.

Covers many of the events that are important to all Americans.

A very convincing opinion piece about the US living up to our international obligations for human decency.

It's an op-ed piece, so editorial bias is a given. But it's a very well done op-ed piece, with plenty of solid information accompanying the opinings and a well-constructed set of premises. It doesn't just present a problem, it suggests solutions as well.

This is an excellent editorial because it pulls together disparate acts of the current administration and the former Republican majorities in Congress. It sheds light on the "Military Commissions Act", which has had very little mainstream media coverage. And it does a great job of showing the "big picture" of how ruthlessly the right-wingers have attacked our civil liberties despite the lip service they pay to honoring those who died to defend those liberties. About time someone challenged these hypocrites!