Crime & Federalism

From the New York Times comes this story:

Following a recommendation of the Sept. 11 commission, the House and Senate are moving toward setting rules for the states that would standardize the documentation required to obtain a driver's license, and the data the license would have to contain.

Critics say the plan would create a national identification card. But advocates say it would make it harder for terrorists to operate, as well as reduce the highway death toll by helping states identify applicants whose licenses had been revoked in other states.

The [Department of Homeland Security] could require the license to include fingerprints or eye prints. The provision would allow the Homeland Security Department to require use of the license, or an equivalent card issued by motor vehicle bureaus to nondrivers for identification purposes, for access to planes, trains and other modes of transportation.

The advocates are correct, assuming that the only terrorists we need to worry about are foreign. Of course, America has its home-grown terrorism: the intermenment of Japanese-Americas; Waco; and Ruby Ridge. Do we trust folks like John Ashcroft enough that we would surrender our privacy to him?

The question is not, "Do you love America?" The question is, "Do you trust those in power?"

Even if you trust the current administration, a national-ID is a bad idea. The power the current administration gives itself will be available to the next administration. Even if we have a upright leaders today, we might have evil leaders tomorrow.

I remember Bill Clinton and his aides reading the FBI files on their political enemies. Would you trust Hillary Clinton with your most private information? If not, then you must not trust George Bush, not because he is evil (he isn't), but because he is a mere placeholder for the Office of the Presidency. Our next president might not have the wisdom of our current leader.