Who has the power to take away my rights?

Question

(Assuming I'm an American citizen, that is.)

Answer 1

The president of the United States of America. All he has to do is label you an "Enemy combatant of the United States of America". He can do this with the stroke of a pen, under secrecy, and there isn't anything that can stop him or reverse his decision if he chooses to do so.

Answer 2

Well, your question is vague. You have a right to "life." That can be taken away through due process, i.e. a charge, fair and open trial, appeal process, and eventually execution. You have a right to liberty (i.e. free movement). That can also be taken away if you've committed a crime and forfeitted your freedom, but only after due process of law (in this case a trial.)
You have a right to certain government benefits, if you qualify, but those may also be taken away, perhaps by an administrative agency.
You may also "waive" rights for some benefit (say, in a criminal case or to get a job with the Federal Government).

Answer 3

Congress and the President of these United States. Actually, Pres. Bush with his patriot act has already stripped most Americans of their rights and what we are left with is a privilege to exist, one that can be taken away in a heart beat.

If the police or other law enforcement agency or government office for ANY reason - want to tap your phone, or, bug your house - they can with no hassle whatsoever. The only reason they have to give is, they think you may have terrorist ties. They don't actually have to believe that, just use it as an excuse. There are no hard checks and balances.

Answer 4

besides the government, any idiot with a gun can take away your right to own property or your right to life/ a drunk driver can take your right to look and act normal or your right to life, in the blink of a eye

Answer 5

Congress can (and does try).

But absent a change to the Constituion, nothing.

Answer 6

Manny....well said

Answer 7

president dui

Answer 8

The man man....