In the wake of disclosures about extensive intelligence collection against the American public by the National Security Agency many people have come to ask whether the agency is out of control and a threat to Constitutional liberties.
Mr. Schneier is a cryptographer and computer security specialist who has also written extensively on issues of homeland security and privacy. He has been critical of many of the practices put in place in the wake of the 911 attacks. He coined the term "security theater" to describe ineffective practices meant to falsely reassure the public.
Placing Mr. Schneier at the helm of the NSA would provide leadership which combines not only technical expertise but a commitment to the freedoms upon which our country was founded.