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Ashcroft Visits Bay State Promoting Patriot Act

Act Designed To Protect Americans Is Meeting Criticism

POSTED: 6:35 pm EDT September 9, 2003
UPDATED: 9:23 pm EDT September 9, 2003

BOSTON -- U.S. Attorney General John Ashcroft was in Boston on Tuesday, part of a 13-state tour promoting the Patriot Act, an act passed overwhelmingly by Congress following 9/11 nearly two years ago.

Video

Watch Natalie Jacobson's Interview

Is The Patriot Act Necessary?

What Do You Think Of The Patriot Act?

NewsCenter 5's Natalie Jacobson reported that the act gives the Justice Department broad powers to fight terrorism, but has been met with considerable concern by Congress and the general public who wonder if the basic rights of Americans guaranteed by the Constitution being violated.

Jacobson spoke with Ashcroft on Tuesday about the controversial act. To watch the interview, click the video link on the left.