Given the attention that Bitcoin may eventually attract from TPTB, I'm amazed how many participants freely disclose their true identities. In particular, the "Post your static IP" thread strikes me as totally irresponsible.
Although it's certainly possible to anonymously rent machines with fixed IP addresses, I doubt that most IP volunteers have done that. IMHO, the developers ought to further emphasize the importance of using Tor, or anonymous and secure VPN services.
Why? I don't believe I'm doing anything illegal where I live.
I think what he's getting at is a quote from Sen. Palpatine "I WILL MAKE IT LEGAL." IE. They don't need a reason and you don't necessarily need to have broken any laws to bring them down on you. They will pass whatever laws they need to achieve their ends.
Ergo, protect yourself accordingly.