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In reply to the discussion: Statement by the President on H.R. 1540 [View all]rhett o rick
(55,981 posts)This is clearly codifying previous interpretations that have allowed the arrest and torture of Jose Padilla. The President in the above statement states this clearly. On the good side he says he will not use this horrible violation of our Constitution. "Moreover, I want to clarify that my Administration will not authorize the indefinite military detention without trial of American citizens. Indeed, I believe that doing so would break with our most important traditions and values as a Nation. My Administration will interpret section 1021 in a manner that ensures that any detention it authorizes complies with the Constitution, the laws of war, and all other applicable law. " This leaves it open for future presidents to arrest and detain American citizens w/o due process.
I didnt expect this legislation to fix the existing court interpretations that allow the arrest and indefinite detention of American citizens w/o due process, but I had hoped it wouldnt codify such.
Bravo for the Pres for his "signing statement" above but it still is a bad day for Democracy.