Let's have a meaningful public debate on the controversial National Security Agency programs that collect and store electronic communications data and content. They certainly have been the center of attention since former NSA contractor Edward Snowden disclosed related documents in June. But let's deal with facts about the programs as they operate, not only with the potential dangers they may pose.
That's not how it's gone so far.
Take the debate last week in the House of Representatives before votes on NSA programs.