October 5: Don't Weaken Shield Law, Mr. President

By Sylvia Gurinsky

Until early last week, President Barack Obama had been repeatedly on record as a champion of freedom of the press. That included support of a law that would protect journalists who have confidential sources.

Then, Obama met with his national security team:

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/01/us/01shield.html?_r=3&scp=1&sq=media%20shield&st=cse

Did Attorney General Eric Holder, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and company drink the same Kool-Aid the Bush Administration did? Sadly, it appears so. And more sadly, it looks like Obama has taken his cup to the punch bowl as well.

Sen. Arlen Specter, D-Pa., is correct: The Senate should approve the bill, Congress should hash out the details in committee as if Obama wasn't backtracking on his support - and the president should be called to question on the record.

A weakened press, in any form, is more dangerous to national security than a million Taliban or Al-Quaida missiles. Congress must pass a strong shield law. And Obama must sign it, not veto it.