General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: "Obama Prepares to Authorize Indefinite Detention of US Citizens for First Time Since McCarthy Era" [View all]bhikkhu
(10,789 posts)...its because the real problem is not being addressed, which is the original war authorization. Where the bill says, under Detainee Matters:
"Nothing in this section is intended to limit or expand the authority of the President or the scope of the Authorization for Use of Military Force." and "Nothing in this section shall be construed to affect existing law or authorities, relating to the detention of United States citizens, lawful resident aliens of the United States or any other persons who are captured or arrested in the United States." - it should be clear that it is changing nothing, as everything was authorized by congress ten years ago. Challenges so far have been in the Hamdi and Padilla cases, and have been difficult enough.
If this bill goes away and the AUMF stands, nothing has changed. I would like to see a plan and a clear intent to end to the war from every person running for office next year, including Obama.