On the one hand, one might wonder what is the harm in a simple survey, whether USDA-initiated, "investigation" or not, to the extent of trying to obstruct it? And on the other hand, quite aside from a reasonable rationale, there are inferences of conflict-of-interest. I for one am very interested in the survey results. Hopefully including a description of how the survey was done, and perhaps even a statement on statistical validity. If it is long, the FML can carry it in parts. And if the survey was faulty, I expect that someone will point that out too. However, we're all supposed to be on the same side, and I'd be doing the FML subscribers a disservice if I let this degenerate into a row. I've been politically active myself, and have personally seen how perfectly reasonable people can go, um, a little "over". Far too many times in fact, sigh. Therefore, let this be fair warning that I can and will terminate discussion on this topic if it seems to be getting out of hand. [Posted in FML issue 0716]