[jess35]

Meanwhile, the lapse of the Patriot Act is not a dire event, IMO.

No kidding, it's not like we've been attacked in the last 4 years. Obviously, we've won the war on terrorism and legislation like the Patriot Act is just a needless infringement of your rights and had nothing to do with the lack of direct attacks on the USA, correct? [/sarcasm

[Cboldt]

it's not like we've been attacked in the last 4 years. Obviously, we've won the war on terrorism and legislation like the Patriot Act is just a needless infringement of your rights and had nothing to do with the lack of direct attacks on the USA, correct?

Actually, I was reflecting on the substantive difference in investigative powers with and without the Patriot Act.

[mancogasuki]

Please don't simplify it. Surrendering our civil rights is giving victory to the terrorists.