"I applaud the Senate for voting to renew the Patriot Act and overcoming the partisan attempts to block its passage. The terrorists have not lost the will or the ability to attack us. The Patriot Act is vital to the war on terror and defending our citizens against a ruthless enemy. This bill will allow our law enforcement officials to continue to use the same tools against terrorists that are already used against drug dealers and other criminals, while safeguarding the civil liberties of the American people."
- George W. Bush
The Patriot Act
Privacy rights changed after the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001 when the Patriot Act was enacted soon after the event. The Patriot Act was created to strengthen U.S. security against terrorist attacks. The Patriot Act directly violates some of the rights granted in the Privacy Act, as the Patriot Act allowed surveillance on phone calls, secret searches, and wiretapping. When it expired, the USA FREEDOM Act was created which attempted to balance out privacy and safety.
Woman protesting the Patriot Act, 2003, NBC
George W. Bush
Alberto R. Gonzales. (Washington Post)
“Since the terrible attacks of September 11, 2001, the Department of Justice’s highest priority has been to protect Americans by preventing acts of terrorism. I applaud Congress for reauthorizing each and every expiring provision of the USA PATRIOT Act and providing additional tools to fight terrorism and other serious crimes."
- Alberto R. Gonzales