Patriot Act

With the success so far of the filibuster against the extension of the USA Patriot Act without changes needed to protect civil liberties, the next move should be a vote to extend the Patriot Act for three months while debate continues. This would continue the necessary provisions, while providing time for a real debate on the contentious measures. It would also give the Republicans opposed to civil liberties protections, as well as the White House, the option of either caving in to the democrativ process or voting against the Patriot Act, which they claim is so important. In the latter case, they would show themselves as they are, favoring political gain over national security and civil liberties. It would also demonstrate the Democrats' committment to protecting civil liberties, while acknowledging the role of parts of the Patriot Act as necessary. It would also help to stem the effect of charges that Democrats "don't care about national security" that the Republicans love to make, despite contrary evidence.