A friend of mine on the Hill tells me that there are discussions going on at the staff level -- both members' staff and committee staffers -- to pass a motion of censure against George W. Bush.

Never in 230 years of the Republic has a president more richly deserved impeachment than George W. Bush. Yet, nothing in the official record indicates that.

There is a genuine and compelling need for an indelible statement on the record that unconstitutional and extra-constitutional antics by the Executive branch -- or any other part of the government -- are unacceptable in our democracy.

Congress must ensure that this Administration's attempts to establish an "imperial presidency" do not become precedent for future administrations.

A Motion of Censure would make that minimal necessary statement. A censure motion would require a debate on the Bush Administration's justifications and its management of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, on its treatment of detainees, including the use of `rendition' and ignoring standards of human rights long practiced in the civilized world, and on its authorization for illegal wiretapping.

It is possible, in view of overwhelming public opinion, that some Republicans might even support a censure resolution. But if they wish to go on the record in support of Bush, by all means, lets get them on the record.

Sadly, our Democratic Congress blinked when they had the opportunity to impeach Bush but I am glad to hear they are at least considering the idea of a Motion to Censure.

It is important that the record reflects what a majority of Americans have long known -- George W. Bush ran a shameful, criminal administration that made a mockery of our Constitution and the fundamental principles of American government.