(My name is Richard Carter and I am the Democratic candidate for U.S. Congress in Nebraska's Second Congressional District.)
For those of you who are joining us for the first time, welcome! This is another in our weekly live blog series. A little about myself: I spent seven years on active duty in the Air Force, flying missions in both Iraq and Afghanistan. While on active duty, I earned my Master's Degree in Economics, and I currently teach Economics at a local community college. I also still serve as a Captain in the Air Force Reserve. I am running for Congress to get our troops out of Iraq, balance the budget, and make sure that every American has access to quality, affordable health care.
Today's topic is over FISA and Civil Rights in general.
In regards to FISA, I have personal experience in this area. When I was in Afghanistan looking for those who attacked us on 9/11. I never once thought we needed to spy on the American people to help us with that job. Bin Laden isn't in America and we shouldnt be spying on our people. I am proud of the Democrats in Congress for fighting back on what was a ridiculous power grab by the Bush Administration.
Another related issue that has some up this campaign is the issue of a National ID. My Democratic opponent has taken to supporting this idea. At our debate on Tuesday, he told the audience:
My friends at the ACLU will get made me for supporting this but I think it is a fair and small sacrifice to make for our security to have a national ID system.
I came out opposed to this idea. I think a National ID Card would be a horrible idea because it would be a huge breach of our civil liberities and a logistical nightmare for the federal government to handle. The idea that my opponent is pushing that we must sacrifice our freedom to pass bad legislation has been a guiding principle of the last eight years and must not continue.
As everyday, I want to hear from you. Feel free and ask me any questions you have.
Check out my website at RichardCarter2008.com!
Here is the link to my ActBlue page.