The executive power of our country is not an imperial power.

The executive power of our country is not an imperial power. The president has demonstrated a dangerous disregard for our Constitution and our laws with his authorization for this illegal program.

This administration, like that of President Nixon, has apparently secretly adopted a legal view of the executive branch's power that is unbounded.

I think one of the fundamental roles of Congress is to exercise oversight of the executive branch. And it's not happening.

Our democratic system relies on transparency and candor from the executive, and so far, we have seen neither. The White House was quick to defend the program, but when pressed for the facts, it has refused to provide them. Congress must conduct oversight and let the American public know the answers to the critical questions surrounding this illegal program. An aggressive public relations campaign and secret hearings cannot restore the public's confidence.

The Constitution exists to protect rights, not undermine them.