Christine Smith’s Blog

“National Emergency” Declarations

So Obama has declared a “national emergency” over the H1N1 “swine” flu.

The main threat I see is government…not flu.  But that’s the way it’s often been with “national emergencies.”

I view this latest “crisis” as yet another excuse for big government to come in and supposedly save the day.  Predictable, but nonetheless ominous, in my opinion. 

What would constitute a “national emergency” to you?  An armed military force invading our towns?  A deadly mystery virus that’s suddenly killing off thousands of Americans?  Certainly it would have to be something that poses a substantial risk to Americans, right?  Think again.  It appears that for U.S. presidents, it takes a whole lot less to circumvent Congress so that they can proceed with their agendas.

Bush sure had his “national emergencies,” take a look at them.  From excuses such as Cuba, Iran, weapons of mass destruction, and terrorism, he didn’t miss many opportunities to use those powers.

Now take a look at Obama’s “national emergencies,” from the “Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to the Stabilization of Iraq,” to the recent (Oct. 16, 2009) “Continuation of the National Emergency with Respect to Significant Narcotics Traffickers Centered in Colombia,” Obama behaves no different than Bush.  He continues the “national emergency” regarding North Korea, the Western Balkans, the Congo, etc.

While you’re at it, take a look at the “national emergencies” declared between 1976-2001 (see page 16 of the CRS Report for Congress pdf).  See much threatening your security and safety?  Anything justifying the bypassing of the legislative branch of our government? 

Look at all the trade barriers erected by presidents, without congressional approval, solely by declaring a “national emergency.”  Use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act by presidents results in restrictions on humanitarian aid, and freezing of assets…all because one man, whomever holds the office of presidency, decides to do so.  What a convenient way to wage war.  (Remember Clinton’s assault on Yugoslavia? It was done the same way using a declaration of “national emergency.”)

When I view Bush’s and Obama’s list of national emergencies, or the list from 1976 to present for that matter, I see little if anything at all that posed any real threat to Americans which couldn’t have been brought before Congress, but what I do see are numerous excuses to use our military might and economic sanctions against other nations and their peoples. 

As for Obama’s current declaration of another “national emergency,” do the “swine” deaths compare to anything else that kills Americans every day?  Is yet another flu strain something unforeseen?  About 36,000 people die annually in the United States from seasonal flu.  Ever had a “national emergency” declared for that?  About 37,000 people die annually (based on last 5 years statistics) in the United States from motor vehicle accidents.  Ever had a “national emergency” declared for that? Of course, not!

But, the “swine” flu has every element the federal government needs: a fear factor which is easily manipulated because it’s about something that sounds different…easily leading to panic…which in turn makes the people look for the government to “save” them.  How convenient for Obama.  Now he’ll come in with his federal flu government websites, public announcements, and discretionary emergency powers to “protect” everyone.  Take a look at the latest flu presentations especially for the children from this White House administration. 

Perhaps, and I only speculate,  this latest “crisis” will be used to soften everyone up to Obama’s “healthcare reform,” or facilitate “forced” vaccinations (forced meaning if you don’t get it, you’re quarantined for example) which could provide an excuse for martial law used domestically.  Restrictions on travel could be implemented. 

Or perhaps it’s just another convenient ploy to prop Obama up as a national “savior,” as it distracts Americans from the real national emergency: the loss of our constitutional republic and our liberties.