As POTUS, I can apply classification categories to anything but I can still see everything myself with no need to get anyone else's approval beforehand. It is a final check on the government that ensures openness of government.
I'm not sure I follow you here. The classification system is designed, of course, to be less open about information. What check is occurring.
The question to ask is who is stopping whom from seeing what? My argument was that a POTUS can see everything and the classification system is a part of the President's remit.
There is a practical problem. If no-one can legally view a certain document then you are stuck in a hole. That document will never be viewed again even to re-classify it correctly.
Who do you think should be able to prevent a POTUS from seeing a document? Surely, it is the other way round? A POTUS can prevent anyone else from viewing a document. He may not apply the markings personally but it will be done on his behalf.
I'm not sure I follow you here. The classification system is designed, of course, to be less open about information. What check is occurring.
The question to ask is who is stopping whom from seeing what? My argument was that a POTUS can see everything and the classification system is a part of the President's remit.
There is a practical problem. If no-one can legally view a certain document then you are stuck in a hole. That document will never be viewed again even to re-classify it correctly.
Who do you think should be able to prevent a POTUS from seeing a document? Surely, it is the other way round? A POTUS can prevent anyone else from viewing a document. He may not apply the markings personally but it will be done on his behalf.