Title: The Census and the Constitution Source:
Freedom Watch URL Source:[None] Published:Mar 5, 2010 Author:Judge Andrew Napolitano Post Date:2010-03-05 10:19:10 by phantom patriot Keywords:None Views:179 Comments:15
The last time the census takers came by where I lived (back about ten years ago), all I would tell him was how many people lived there. He asked me if I wouldn't answer his other questions and I politely, but firmly, told him that I would not. And to my knowledge nothing more was ever said about it. They didn't try to fine me and I wouldn't have paid it if they did.
This just in, times have changed slightly since ten years ago. LOL
Yes, but they haven't amended the Constitution to allow them to demand answers to the nosy questions that they ask. And I think people should remember that the census takers are strangers with a clipboard and ask themselves if some stranger approached them on the street and asked a bunch of bs nosy questions if they would feel compelled to answer them. I think not. I would feel compelled to tell them to mind their own business.
I wouldn't expect the census takers, much less the totalitarian power behind them, to be nearly as patient this go 'round.
ef 'em. If people choose to talk to them at all beyond answering one question-- that being the number of people who lived at that address--it should be along the lines of "Can my replies to your questions be used against me? Do you share information with other government agencies? Do you recognize my right to remain silent?"
OK, why is it that you keep taking issue with me here?
Sorry if you misunderstood. I was not taking issue with you at all. Just saying that I would not answer questions that are none of their business. Sometimes my mail doesn't make it to the box and it is possible I wouldn't hear their knock on the door. I think there are several ways to avoid answering their questions. Another is to just refuse. But no, I have no issue with you so far as I know.