"Presumably, these arrangements would have to be shared with the operating company. It is ridiculous to claim that a few days of vetting are sufficient to okay this company to operate the ports and to be given access to secret security arrangements."
I believe it's been more than just a "few days of vetting." Do you know that this company operates ports all over the world, including Australia (a terrorist target)? Do you think the US is the only country with classified security arrangements? Do you think the UAE company became so well established by leaking these arrangements? Do you realize that it's American union workers carrying out this work? Do you realize that it still will be even after the deal goes through?
No one can claim that there's "nothing to worry about" (and Bush never said this, of course) no matter WHO takes over the job of managing our ports.
Bush did say there's "nothing to worry about." He was shown on the news this evening making that very statement. I heard it. I'm sorry, but I don't think this company should have access to classified security arrangements. The suggestion that our ports should be operated by any foreign government in this day and age is just plain nuts. The committee that approved it is supposed to subject a decision like this to at least 45 days of careful scrutiny. That's the law.