Pubdate: Sun, 25 Nov 2001 Source: Seattle Times (WA) Copyright: 2001 The Seattle Times Company Contact: http://www.seattletimes.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/409 Author: Dan Merkle REACTING TO TERROR Peace In The Extreme Gov. Gary Locke and state Attorney General Christine Gregoire are heading to the right as they align themselves with U.S. Attorney General John Ashcroft and Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld in what will soon be viewed as an unnecessary and politically dangerous encroachment on our civil liberties ("Locke, Gregoire propose tougher anti-terrorism laws," Times, Nov. 21). The proposed state anti-terrorist legislation is merely an excuse to give law-enforcement agencies additional powers that our public and legislators would normally view as extreme measures. This politically opportunistic grab for power will backfire as the smoke clears and people see that the curtailing of civil liberties is not the answer to safeguarding our communities. Like its predecessor, the failed "War on Drugs," the new "War on Terrorism" will expand over time to target those who are not in favor with whoever has the power. With Democrats like these, who needs Republicans? - - Dan Merkle, Seattle - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom