Bringing an end to mass government surveillance needs to be a central pillar of returning to the principles we have put in jeopardy in the early 21st century.
If our principles are only our principles when it is convenient for us, when they align with our visceral emotional responses, then they are, in fact, not principles at all.
I'm not a moderniser. I accept that things like escalators do need an upgrade every now and then, but I think the fundamental principles of Conservatism have a long thread running through them that does not need to be modernised.
The BJP is a large family, and if someone comes to us with a commitment towards our values and principles, then it should not be opposed.
My opinions and principles are subjects of just criticism. I put myself before the public voluntarily.
Just as predatory animals follow a similar general design and behave in similar ways, so organizations, especially those in competition with one another, must follow certain design principles if they are to succeed and prevail.
Just because people are in authority, if it doesn't seem right, don't do it. If it violates your own principles, don't do it.
Passionately defending one's principles is crucial. Representing your district is fundamental. But refusing to entertain the common ground - with no other cost but giving the other guy a political 'win' - is a disservice.
The truth is that the D.C. Circuit is an admirably nonideological court that applies principles of administrative law evenhandedly.