[bdeaner]

When you say non-defense spending, does that include Homeland Security? We're also fighting a different kind of war at home, these days.

[FirstPrinciple]

So, you really think Homeland Security is fighting to prevent terrorism? It is another big govt prgoram to make us feel we are doing something. Right after 9/11, Bush made a big deal to create this big govt program. As if all the other para-military federal agencies were not enough. If we had one more, we could prevent future terrorist attacks. Yeah right! Supporters claim that Homeland Security provides the coordination between all these other para-military agencies. Well, that job is already the responsibility for the office of the National Security Advisor. And, what was Tom Ridge's remark to protect the homeland by securing the borders? "Well, sir, we cannot do it for social and political reasons." Yeah, I feel really secure.

[onemoreday]

....
....bdeaner.....

you say:

"...We're also fighting a different kind of war at home, these days...."

I just think "we" must ask who the "we" is that is fighting this new kind of war....."AT HOME, THESE DAYS....."

and against whom it is being fought.

Forget this ......"is it really Conservative"....issue.

WE....the people
need new terms...especially for
WE....the government

A lot more is being "redefined" than the already over-blown lib/con dichotomy...........and far in excess of what 911 warranted......and in a far less open manner than needed.

And we should perhaps, "step on it".....soon it may be too late to ask these questions of self-definition