“If this were a dictatorship, it would be a heck of a lot easier,
just so long as I’m the dictator.”
-George W. Bush, December 18, 2000

When observing Bush’s actions since 9/11, people wonder how he gets away with blatantly violating laws such as those regarding domestic spying. Have you wondered why Congress does nothing about it, even with democrats in control? Breaking a law is a criminal act and grounds for impeachment, and yet nothing happens, nothing is said. And nothing is ever going to happen either. Bush and his associates will never be prosecuted for any of these crimes. Why? Because the Office of Legal Counsel (probably the most powerful organization in the U.S. that you’ve never heard of) approved all of Bush’s actions. The blessings from the Office of Legal Counsel gave permission for these activities and confers immunity from prosecution on anyone who acts on their recommendations. The Office of Legal Counsel’s decisions carry the same weight as a Supreme Court decision and cannot be challenged in any way.

Last night I listened to a great interview. Terry Gross interviewed Charlie Savage, author of In Pursuit of the Imperial President. Savage gives a complete explanation of what has happened in a clear concise manner, including how Bush managed to co-opt this all-powerful Office of Legal Counsel. There’s a concrete reason that the president can do what he does and get away with it and there’s nothing we can do about it. If you’ve wondered about this mystery, wonder no more. You can listen to the interview here:

http://www.npr.org/templates/rundowns/rundown.php?prgId=13&agg=0&prgDate=09-05-2007&view=storyview

The above link is to NPR’s show called Fresh Air, September 5th, 2007. It will be 39 minutes well spent. When you get there, click on the “Listen” button.