Sometimes it's just painful, to be an American

Actually, I can't remember any time in my 37 years where I was almost embarrased to be an American.

Why does the current administration feel like we, America, can just do whatever the hell we want, all in the name of "protecting" ourselves against terrorism? I am talking about the following (from: thinkprogress.org) :

Congress moves to authorize torture.

The House voted 253-168 to approve legislation on military commissions that authorizes torture and strips detainees of the right to challenge their detention. Also voted down was a measure by Rep. Ike Skelton (D-MO) which called for an expedited judicial review of the constitutionality of the commissions, and required the bill to be reauthorized in three years to ensure congressional oversight in evaluating the effectiveness of the commissions. The Senate is expected to approve nearly identical legislation tomorrow. September 27, 2006 9:45 pm (103)

We've invaded countries for such acts against humanity.

We're spiraling down. I think someone needs to hit the reset-button and start all over again.