Spin Cycle

The controversial FISA legislation, expanding presidential authority to sourveil and data mine and immunizing telecommunications companies for past Bush-requested surveillance not authorized by statute, is expected to come up for a vote later this week.

Everyone in the LI Congressional delegation except for Steve Israel voted for it. Obama opposes the telcom provision but -- in a reversal that has won scorn from many of his own supporters -- has said he'll vote for the bill and the expanded surveillance, even if that provision isn't stripped out. Schumer is against the telcom provision, and has said he'll vote against the bill.

For more than a week, we've been asking Sen. Clinton's office where she stands. The most substantive answer we've gotten so far: "When we have something to announce, we will." Before the holiday, she even ducked a vote on limiting debate on the telcom immunity provision, although during her presidential campaign she had expressed opposition to previous versions of immunity.

Obviously, she's busy with fundraising and politicking. She has to decide how her stance will fit with her interest in the vice-presidential slot. She has to decide whether to tack to the left for awhile, or continue on course as the warrior-senator on national security issues. Votes pitting civil liberties against national security aren't easy.

But, still, wouldn't it be nice if she'd take a position, explain it to her constituents, and try to lead, instead of hide in the weeds? Why is it so much harder for her than it is for anyone else in the delegation to make a decision?