Patrick Leahy actually said...

"It is only fair and common sense and reasonable that we have at our disposal abilities that have existed for decades to pursue drug dealers and mobsters."

"Given the misuse of the NSL authority that was seen in the Inspector General's 2007 report, I thought it was time to take another look at the authority."

"I worked with Senator Specter and we were able to expand public transparency in congressional oversight--but in the end several important checks and balances were not included in the final version."

"I commend the Attorney General, I commend him very highly for working with us and shaping these approved policies and procedures."