As two bills that limit law enforcements use of drones to monitor Floridians move through the Legislature, a new Gallup survey shows broad support for the governments use of the unmanned aircraft for other purposes, specifically, anti-terrorist activities abroad. But, Americans draw the line when it comes to use on domestic soil.
A majority of Americans sanction the U.S. government's use of drones in airstrikes in foreign countries to counter suspected terrorists. But, a huge portion of the 65 percent approval drops off when it comes to using drones on or within U.S. borders to strike against U.S. citizens suspected of terrorist activity. Only 13 percent of respondents approved of that use.
The poll indicates that Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, a Republican, had it right when he filibustered the nomination of CIA Director John Brennan, as he pushed the Obama administration to clarify their position on whether it was lawful to use drones on American citizens on domestic soil.
Even though Obamas drone policy heated up the headlines during this time, only about half (49 percent) of Gallups respondents said they are following news about the drones very or somewhat closely. The same percentage found the subject not worth following.
The survey revealed that those who follow the drone issue are more likely to support its use.
Meanwhile, in Florida, RepublicanRep. Ritch Workman's HB 119 -- Freedom from Unwarranted Surveillance Act -- is scheduled on the House calendar for a second reading. In the Senate,Joe Negron, R-Stuart, has acompanion billthat is in the Appropriations Committee.
The Gallup poll was based on telephone interviews conducted March 20-21, with a random sample of 1,020 adults, aged 18 and older, living in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia.
Anne Smith writes special to Sunshine State News.
