I agree with Ace's assessment.
I also like to think, using my rose-colored thinking-cap, that maybe, just maybe, the administration and CIA aren't as bumbling in these matters as they appear to be.
These leaks MAY BE "double gotchas." Assuming the we've already reaped valuable info from these programs a well placed 'leak' will serve two purposes: first it will shake out the internal leakers. For instance a clever and loyal CIA higher up casually discusses this program with a suspect collegue. within a few weeks that program is splashed on the front pages and now we have a tab on an internal leaker(!). This also allows the press to show its true colors and many Americans are turning away from that such as NYT stand for.
Second, when the enemies learn about these programs they will take evasive action, such as changing phone service from one of the cooperating telecom companies to the uncooperating companies, and we can track these evasions. In the phone record 'scandal' a bounty of info could be obtained from monitoring phone record changes in the aftermath. Similarly, with the exposure of the financial transaction tracking a clever CIA can pickup of evasive financial maneuvers. Thus shaking out undetected parties.
Remember that GWB has an admirable ability to take slings and arrows if it means there is a greater good to be had. This could be a sacrifice on his part- allowing the gov't intelligence to look stupid, in order to get at valuable intelligence info.
I think also that the message from the MSM is clear that if you elect Democrats you will get better headlines. The 'feel good' stories could only be one election away.
Armed Liberal is full of crap. If it were a Democratic administration the popular press would be bombarding us with fauning stories of how smart the president is to think of such a clever way to catch terrorists, and we're all safe anyway b/c the Pres would have had talks with the UN and how everyone in the world loves us.
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