We're concerned because it's part of a general trend in this administration. Far as we know, it's possible that they are like many other Americans - being spied on.

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

The administration is claiming extraordinary presidential powers at the expense of civil liberties and is putting the president above the law.

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.

It is necessary as far as we are concerned that this matter is resolved as soon as possible,

Congress cannot approve an illegal program when so many questions remain unanswered.