I spoke this morning with an aide in Senator Specter's office who informed me that there is not as yet a schedule for hearings to investigate Bush's NSA surveillance authorizations, and the Alito hearings will proceed as planned.
I suggest calling to tell them (cordially) that you think that is the wrong priority.
202-224-4254
I include below text of a letter I also sent to his office.
"Dear Senator Specter,
I applaud your decision to investigate the administration regarding their warrantless surveillance and urge you to begin these investigations before proceeding with the Alito nomination hearings.
While I believe that wiretaps and surveillance can be an important tool for protecting us against potential terrorist activity, these can be carried out without abandoning the fundamental principles of governance that are found in our Constitution.
To move forward with Supreme Court nominations while the President has admitted and promises to continue surveillance that violates legislative requirements for judicial review is unfathomable.
To follow Constitutional procedures in the advice and consent role for his nominees when the President has asserted what appear to be unconstitutional powers is a complete dereliction of oversight by the legislature.
Thank you for considering these views.
cc: Sen. Mikulski, Sen. Sarbanes"