Fears of administration intimidation and spying

Re “It’s dirty tricks all over again,” Opinion, Dec. 15

I am somewhat of a fan of Arianna Huffington. But this time, though her general message is correct, her piece lacks the clarity and crispness I am used to. When she says that the Bush administration has a long and ignominious history of rhetorical intimidation, but now is moving to actual intimidation, this is inaccurate. Bushco has always used actual intimidation. The IRS has threatened religious spokespeople for speaking against the Iraqi war. The FBI has cross-examined antiwar protesters. Thugs in precincts have intimidated minority voters. Certainly Ambassador Joseph Wilson was intimidated when his wife was outed by an administration representative, I. Lewis “Scooter” Libby. Come on, Arianna.

JIM HOOVER

Huntington Beach

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Thanks to Huffington, I tried the 1-800-CALL-SPY and was told that I could remain anonymous. I have to admit -- for a moment -- I thought about my neighbor with the ever-barking dog, my other neighbor who has parties late into the night and another neighbor who rides his motorcycle through the streets at 6 a.m. on Sunday morning. I wondered if these might be potential targets for U.S. investigations. They might link to some evil plan. At the very least, it would certainly be retribution for the neighborhood’s minor discomfort.

On the other hand, I wonder if someone is concerned about the noise the kids make in my swimming pool? Bad idea all around. But is it for every disgruntled community member?

PATRICK O’BRIEN

San Juan Capistrano