The definition of a patriot is one who loves and defends his or her country. On October 26, 2001, President George W. Bush signed the Patriot Act Bill into law. This bill passed 98-1 in the United States Senate and 356-66 in the United States House of Representatives. The act is 342 pages long and consists of 15 statutes. This act has caused much controversy over the past couple of years and there have been several different ideas about how it affects the people of the United States. The reason it was passed is very logical and I definitely agree with the extra protection of the American people. However, many people argue whether the bill interferes with individual liberties and freedoms. The question is if the protection of the American people is worth the decrease in privacy. The answer to this question would determine whether or not you had something to hide. There have been a couple of alleged abuses under the Patriot Act. For instance, "In Las Vegas, police used a FISA (Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act) warrant to monitor the activities of a strip club owner. Despite his guilt or innocence, it was a violation of the law" (aclu.org). This and other issues have made the Patriot Act a very controversial bill. There have even been other bills to limit the United States Patriot Act. Although many people argue whether the patriot act is good or bad for America, the fact that there have not been any other terrorist attacks on America since 9/11 might show some signs of success.
             The Patriot Act consists of over fifteen statutes that all affect the law. A general overview: "This law provides for indefinite imprisonment without trial of non-U.S. citizens whom the Attorney General has determined to be a threat to national security. The government is not required to provide detainees with counsel, nor is it required to make any announcement or statement regarding the arrest. The law allows a wiretap to be issued against an individual ...