FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 17, 2005

CONTACT: Brendan Daly/Jennifer Crider 202-226-7616

Pelosi Statement on President Bush’s Authorization of National Security Agency’s Activities

Washington, D.C. –House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on President Bush’s December 17, 2005 radio address during which he disclosed that he had provided authority to the National Security Agency to conduct unspecified activities.  The President also disclosed that leaders of Congress had been briefed on his action.

“We all agree that the President must have the best possible intelligence to protect the American people, but that intelligence must be produced in a manner consistent with the United States Constitution and our laws.  The President’s statement today raises serious questions as to what the activities were and whether the activities were lawful.

“I was advised of President Bush’s decision to provide authority to the National Security Agency to conduct unspecified activities shortly after he made it and have been provided with updates on several occasions.

“The Bush Administration considered these briefings to be notification, not a request for approval.  As is my practice whenever I am notified about such intelligence activities, I expressed my strong concerns during these briefings.”

“ Democrats are united in presenting a New Direction for America, one that will make our nation as strong as its people, one that brings opportunity, security, and prosperity to all Americans. ”

Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi