Another Pre-emptive Strike: This time, against the Bill of Rights

The FBI has approached, interviewed, and intimidated possible would-be protesters of the Democratic and Republican National Conventions. But let's be clear, in all probability, the majority of those interviewed by the FBI were likely anti-Republican. The FBI won't say whom they have interviewed so far, or whom them will interview in the future.

It is a troubling time for civil libertarians in a post-9/11 world. Proponents of the interviewings argue it's done in the name of natinoal security--preventing violent or illegal crime before it happens. The line of harassment and execution of anti-terrorism duties is blurred when interviewing and investigating witnesses pre-emptively.

The FBI is under incredible pressure these days. Flawed and poor investigations. Punishing internal FBI whistle-blowers. And now this.

Hopefully, reform and change is on the way.