[lookout123]

ok, let's slow down for a minute. you are talking about the patriot act, etc. - but what was the background that allowed these to be put into place? what was the goal?
and believe it or not bush couldn't take us far down that path even if it was his secret goal.

you forget about the major obstacle to that - YOU! do you honestly believe that if we were moving in that direction that individuals, such as yourself wouldn't be up in arms, protesting and contacting your local rep's? our system is one of balance, cyclical certainly. we will go too far one way then jerk back too far the other. but in the end - america stays fairly close to the center. internal politics (within our borders) will take care and perpetuate this balancing act. our true threat is, and will remain, what(and who) is outside of our borders seeking to take away our power and ability to have these ridiculous little discussions.

germany in the early 20th century was destitute, not uncomfortable, not poor (as defined by only having 1 vehicle, 1tv, and dial up internet). they were destitute not from the actions of their internal leaders but by the burden placed upon them by a veangeful continent. they were ripe for the plucking. and here is a landmine - the german people historically have been disciplined followers. the american public, although mindless sheep at times, rarely unites in a large meaningful way, for anything but short term goals.