We are at a defining moment for civil liberties and freedom in America.

With the resignation of Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, America now faces a momentous decision. We don't know yet who President Bush will name as his nominee. Whoever it is, whatever his or her record, one thing is critical -- the United States Senate needs to take the time to fully examine and carefully consider the nominee's record. Never in our history has the shape and direction of the Supreme Court been more important to the future of freedom in America than it is right now, and there is simply too much at stake to rush any nominee through without reflection.

I assure you that the ACLU will be doing everything we can to compile, review and circulate information about the nominee's public record. We'll get the facts out to the American people -- and we'll work to ensure Congress conducts a confirmation process that recognizes and addresses the important civil liberties issues at stake.

But that isn't all we'll be doing in the coming days. Congress is preparing to decide the ultimate future of the Patriot Act. If they vote to extend or even expand the act, they will make permanent constraints on freedom that no democracy should ever tolerate. The ACLU has been in this fight from the beginning and will be working overtime throughout the summer to bring the Patriot Act back in line with the Constitution.

It is hard to imagine two decisions of more consequence to the fundamental freedoms we cherish -- or more central to the mission and purpose of the ACLU. At this decisive moment in the life of our democracy, I promise you the best and most tenacious efforts of the ACLU and I know we can expect the same of you in return. It is absolutely essential that every one of us rallies to protect the freedoms that define our democracy.

Sincerely,

Anthony D. Romero
Executive Director, ACLU
www.aclu.org

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