You seem to think that I adhere to all of what Ms. Rand had to say. I do not.

I am a constitutional libertarian, not an Objectivist. I do not have faith in my fellow man that they will leave me be just because it is some mythical "best interest" for them to do so. In fact, I am more of the perspective that they will do unto me whatever is in their selfish interest and say "to hell with you." Thus, we must maintain capabilities to ensure that we are not taken advantage of.

All in all, say what you will regarding our support of the Shah, propping up the sheiks in Arabia, meddling with governments in central and south America, the US has been a greater force for good in this world since it was established than any other nation. We have been instrumental in bringing to conclusion 2 world wars and been more of a stabilizing influence than non-stabilizing. So yes, I will give the CIA the benefit of the doubt and accept that what they do is an unfortunate, but necessary evil.