Maybe its been posted but I haven't seen a good discussion on the merits of Cheney's most recent abomination, his supposed new authority to declassify documents.
Glancing at the Executive Order,
http://www.fas.org/...
I'm trying to find references to the authority to declassify, rather than classify, which Bush clearly gave him. The fact that he has the authority "in exercising executive duties", is amazing enough. First, help me out here, but exactly what executive duties would Cheney have. The Constitution says he presides over the Senate, breaks ties, and sits and waits for the Pres to die. What exactly would these executive duties be?
Anyway, look through it. I see that the authority to declassify is given to the President, and the heads of the various agencies, none of which report to the Veep. I'm no lawyer though. Any insights? Lets clear up this talking point.