Law enforcement

The FBI needs a new director. Or at the very least, those authorized the filing of the lawsuit to compel Apple to provide a means to defeat its own iOS security, need to resign. Because they have shown a lack of considered judgment, a lack of long term vision for what law enforcement requires, and a lack of understanding of our form of government and the constitutional guarantees it affords.

First, these folks lack considered judgment because the same tool they require Apple to produce, can and will be used by criminals, terrorists, foreign intelligent agents, not just by the FBI. And that risk is greater many times over compare to the benefits.

Second, these folks lack the long term vision for what law enforcement in the 21st century requires. Law enforcement does not require lock makers like Schlage or Kwikset to produce a master key for every lock they have ever produced. Even with a warrant, law enforcement still has to either pick the lock or use a battering ram. Law enforcement does not lobby Congress to pass legislation to outlaw battering ram proof doors. The same should be for digital property and privacy as it is for physical property and privacy.

Finally, these folks lack the understanding of our form of government and the constitutional guarantees it affords. Our government governs by the consent of the governed. Our constitution guarantees that the right of the people to be secured in their papers and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures shall not be violated. The government acts within those powers the people consented to give the government for the people's common defense and security. We do not expect absolute security from the state. We do not consent to the government violating our civil liberties to protect us. After all, the founding fathers sacrificed their lives, properties, and sacred honors, to secure freedom. It is give me liberty or give me death. It's not security at all cost.

The president, the champion of civil liberties, should appoint folks who have the necessary considered judgment, the long term vision for what law enforcement requires, and the clear understanding of our form of government and constitutional guarantees.