General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Obama is BOUND BY LAW to prosecute torture. [View all]branford
(4,462 posts)However, torture prosecutions raise the stakes for everyone dramatically.
An incredibly large number of very important people on both sides of the aisle have too many skeletons concerning what they believe are good faith acts to protect the American people. Matters like Joe Arpaio or some minor congressman's tax problems are barely a blip on the political radar without long-term consequences. However, torture prosecutions are the veritable nuclear launch, and the fear of mutually assured destruction keeps everyone quiet. Prosecutions would also realistically act as an impediment to recruiting and retaining key individuals in the defense, intelligence, foreign affairs and justice spheres, and might severely impact national security.
Apart from the legal difficulties, and despite my personal opposition to torture, I acknowledge that to those responsible for our safety and security, the issue complex with real life and death consequences.