The EFF's analysis of the PATRIOT act. This is from a while back, but a good read nevertheless. I'm not sure if it has been recommended before, but you should know what kind of mess your duly elected representatives have gotten you into. Probably one of the more startling pieces of evidence showing the "herd" mentality of various representatives directly following 9-11.

In a nutshell? More sweeping powers for law enforcement when it was not clear that they need them in order to prevent terrorist attacks.

EFF Analysis of USA PATRIOT Act (Oct. 31, 2001)