Analysis:
This story basically presents the Bush administration’s position and only that position. First, it states that the USA Patriot Act was passed after September 11 “and expanded the government’s ability to track terror suspects.” Many critics of this legislation would argue that that was not why it was passed. Secondly, there is only a partial listing of the portions of the Act that are scheduled to expire in December. It would be important for viewers to get a more complete picture of these provisions, as they have tremendous bearing on civil liberties.
The story continues by saying “Supporters say the nation is vulnerable without these provisions.” The news story never says who the supporters are, doesn’t verify their claim, and channel 13 doesn’t provide a counter opinion.
Story:
WZZM 13 News reader – Attorney General Alberto Gonzalez and the FBI director Robert Muller addressed a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing today, urging lawmakers to renew sections of the USA Patriot Act. The Patriot Act passed following September 11 and expanded the government’s ability to track terror suspects. Sections of the Act expire in December, including the ability to secretly search a suspect’s home and gain access to library records. Supporters say the nation is vulnerable without these provisions. Tomorrow lawmakers will introduce a bill designed to curb some Patriot Act powers and add some new checks and balances.
Total time: 35 seconds
