NYT issues sensible editorial on FISA

Perhaps the tide is turning. Even the New York Times is starting to make sense. They even almost used the word “lying” when referring to Bush and Gonzales. Here’s the better part of a still very mild editorial (via t/o):

Last week, The Times reported that the C.I.A. director, Gen. Michael V. Hayden, is investigating the office of his agency’s inspector general after it inquired into policies on detention and interrogation. This improper, perhaps illegal investigation sends a clear message of intimidation. We also know that the F.B.I. has abused expanded powers it was granted after 9/11 and that the former attorney general, Alberto Gonzales, systematically covered up the president’s actions with deliberately misleading testimony.

Mr. Bush says the law should give immunity to communications companies that gave data to the government over the last five years without a court order. He says they should not be punished for helping to protect America, but what Mr. Bush really wants is to avoid lawsuits that could uncover the extent of the illegal spying he authorized after 9/11.




There are real words for “deliberately misleading,” “disinformation,” and “no truth to any of those claims.” Those words are “lie”, “perjury”, and ”impeachable offenses.” But the New York Times is at least working on its baby teeth. Maybe someday it will be able to bite.