In my last entry, I emailed Sen. Chambliss over his remarks over the whole NSA ordeal. If you go back and read it, then read this response, it's abundantly clear that emailing didn't do a bit of good. I guess a direct letter is in order. Anyway, here's his response, which answered NONE of my questions.
Dear Mr. Stroud:
Thank you for contacting me about the recent disclosure of classified information related to the National Security Agency (NSA). I appreciate your concern on this important issue.
In approximately June 2013, former NSA contractor Edward Snowden leaked classified information related to NSA's activities to the media. The characterization of this information by Mr. Snowden and the media has in many cases been inaccurate. Unfortunately, these disclosures have already damaged our national security. We now know that because of these unauthorized disclosures, terrorists have learned more about how we gather information on them and are taking different tactics to thwart detection.
Ensuring security must be consistent with respect for the constitutional rights of all Americans, and there is strong oversight of these programs by all three branches of government. Congress has worked closely with the Executive branch over two administrations to ensure that these activities fully comply with the law, and we will continue to do so. These programs are also carefully reviewed by the Judicial branch on a regular basis.
As Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, I will continue to engage in vigorous oversight of our intelligence activities to balance national security priorities with individual rights. Ultimately, the threat from terrorism remains very real and these lawful intelligence activities, which we know have prevented over 50 terrorist attacks since 9/11, must continue. As the Committee and the Senate consider legislation relating to our intelligence collection activities, I will keep your thoughts in mind.
If you would like to receive timely email alerts regarding the latest congressional actions and my weekly e-newsletter, please sign up via my web site at: www.chambliss.senate.gov. Please let me know whenever I may be of assistance.
I plan writing a direct letter tomorrow. Maybe this will get me some more inforation. I'll post whatever response I get.
Thnx for reading!
sTs
