Conyers: U.S. On Verge Of Becoming A Surveillance State

WASHINGTON DC (WWJ/AP) – Michigan Democratic Representative John Conyers says he fears the nation may be “on the verge of becoming a surveillance state.”

Conyers’ comments follow growing concerns amid revelations about government surveillance of its citizens.

“We have a feeling, at least some of us, that it’s not necessary, nor does it serve a legitimate legal protective service,” Conyers said, adding that he believes the surveillance is too “far-reaching.”

“My considered judgement is that the Federal Bureau of Investigations’ actions are inconsistent with the requirements of the Patriot Act and violate the fundamental privacy of law-abiding citizens,” he said.

Conyers spoke at Thursday’s House Judiciary Committee hearing in Washington D.C. as FBI Director Robert Mueller was questioned about the surveillance programs targeting millions of Americans’ phone records and the Internet use of foreigners using U.S. Internet companies.

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