Links of the Day
Big ups to Chris Dodd, who’s doing everything in his power to stop this sham of a FISA amendment–which would allow the government to spy on anyone it wants without a warrant, and for both it and the telecoms that willfully broke the law to gain immunity for past violations. You can watch Senator Dodd’s speech that condemns the FISA proposal, and/or read the transscript, here. If only Senator Obama had Chris Dodd’s integrity, or balls.
The co-link of the day (maybe of the year) goes to this piece from 2007, which describes every journalist’s responsibilities in acting as a check and balance against the government, doubly so in light of the weak-willed compliance we saw during the buildup to Iraq, and now again with the spineless behavior being shown as sabers start rattling for Iran. This reads like a manual for any working journalist, covering any field, not just politics. Really superb stuff. It’s been a long time since journalism school, and it’s easy to forget the principles that drive us to do what we do. But we all have a responsibility as journalists to think critically and not accept statements at face value, whether we’re covering grave matters like war, or much lighter fare like sports.
On a personal note, I’m in Toronto, sandwiched between the wedding of my good friends Dave and Kara last Sunday, and the wedding of my good friends Eric and Jodi this Sunday. It’s exciting to see lifelong buddies join the club. Nearly eleven years later, it’s still the best decision I ever made.
Playing basketball tonight for the first time since breaking my toe? We’ll see how wise a decision that turns out to be.
