The Left is always trying to create new laws (such as for "hate crimes") when current laws against vandalism and assault and murder suffice.
Now, "conservatives" are always seeking new laws despite the old laws sufficing. Why? Because, some say, "If my President says he needs this law, then that's good enough for me!"
"Conservatives" are the new leftists.
Agreed. Government has gotten so intrusive, doing so many things the Framers did not design it to do. However, defense and security are something we must do in common. This law is needed to strengthen enforcement to counter bad guys.
I agree that the whole country has moved to the left, but I don't just agree b/c it's Bush. We are fighting a war for our survival, and I have no problem with using tools being used on drug dealers being used for terrorists for now.
The Patriot Act was actually written by Gary Hart and Andrew Young; they're only embraced as Conservatives in the context of the Patriot Act.