Trust the people

Unnecessary White House secrecy does a disservice to the millions of citizens whose informed vigilance could be a crucial asset in the war against terrorism.
The American tradition of open, representative government should not become a casualty of the war on terrorism. The Bush administration deserves the patience and support of the American people as it navigates an uncharted course in responding to an unprecedented threat to our security. As that response unfolds, the White House occasionally will have legitimate reason to keep information secret from other government officials and the American people. In several instances, however, the White House already has been unnecessarily secretive. This war, particularly as it relates to homeland security, will require the informed involvement of all citizens.

Even in times of war, criticism of White House policy is not necessarily partisan, much less unpatriotic. In fact, some of the most pointed criticism of Bush administration secretiveness has come from prominent Republicans generally allied with the president.