Presents the issue of domestic spying by the federal government, examining the policies of the National Security Agency which allow wiretapping and the procurement of telephone records without a legal warrant, the opposition and court challenges that this policy has provoked, and the proposals for reform.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 61-62) and index.

Balancing power in the age of terrorism -- A brief history of an old activity -- A divisive debate -- Challenging the courts -- Domestic spying and the legal system -- The impact of domestic spying.