Barack Obama - Introduction to Executive Order 13526- Cla**ified National Security Information Part 0: Introduction lyrics

This order prescribes a uniform system for cla**ifying, safeguarding, and decla**ifying national security information, including information relating to defense against transnational terrorism. Our democratic principles require that the American people be informed of the activities of their Government. Also, our Nation's progress depends on the free flow of information both within the Government and to the American people. Nevertheless, throughout our history, the national defense has required that certain information be maintained in confidence in order to protect our citizens, our democratic institutions, our homeland security, and our interactions with foreign nations. Protecting information critical to our Nation's security and demonstrating our commitment to open Government through accurate and accountable application of cla**ification standards and routine, secure, and effective decla**ification are equally important priorities. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, by the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered as follows: