Candidate Calculator 2008 Election
The Patriot Act
Summary
The Patriot Act expanded the authority of U.S. law enforcement agencies in order to help them combat terrorism. Following are some of the provisions of the act:
- Increased ability of law enforcement agencies to search telephone and e-mail communications
- Increased ability of law enforcement agencies to search medical, financial and other records
- Eased restrictions on foreign intelligence gathering within the United States
- Expanded the Secretary of the Treasury’s authority to regulate financial transactions, particularly those involving foreign individuals and entities
- Enhanced the discretion of law enforcement and immigration authorities in detaining and deporting immigrants suspected of terrorism-related acts
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Expanded the definition of terrorism to include "domestic terrorism." This new definition increased the number of activities to which the Patriot Act applies.
Yes: Support the Patriot Act
The United States needs the Patriot Act to ensure its safety against terrorism. The Patriot Act does not unjustly impinge on civil liberties or violate the Constitution. To the contrary, without it our rights and liberties would be at greater risk. The Patriot Act is a necessary safeguard for America that addresses the realities of a post Sept. 11 world.
You support this or similar arguments.
No: Against the Patriot Act
The Patriot Act goes too far in attempting to protect America, violating the Constitution and civil liberties. In particular, it goes too far by allowing indefinite detentions of immigrants; searches of homes and businesses without permission or knowledge of those being searched; expanded powers of the FBI to search telephone, email, and financial records without a court order; and the expanded access of law enforcement agencies to government records. Federal courts have ruled at least one provision of the act as unconstitutional.
You support this or similar arguments.
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Additional Information
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