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
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom