If you are going to read ANYTHING on the internet today, you should read THIS ARTICLE. It goes on to describe how Attorney General Roberto Gonzalez is arguing against a person's right of Habeus Corpus. What does this mean? Well, for those not familiar with the term...."The clear meaning of the clause [in the US Constitution], as interpreted for more than two centuries, is that the Founders recognized the long-established English law principle of habeas corpus, which guarantees people the right of due process, such as formal charges and a fair trial."
In other words, if someone were hoping for an Orwellian society where people can be "disappeared" at the drop of a hat without public question, then this would be one of the first steps on the way there. And yes...this is only my opinion...but it quainly summarizes a potential outcome. Even the ranking republican on the commitee pretty much let the attorney general know that he was off his rocker (in much nicer terms).
Again, I MUST stress that this is NOT an anti-Bush or anti government or anti-anything post on my part. I would question ANYONE who would do something like this. I'm not making a politically-affiliated argument. I'm simply saying that it scares me that the seperation of powers and the checks/balances that go along with that can be attacked like this and potentially eroded.
I'm certainly hoping that common sense can overcome a political challenge like this.
1 comment:
I love this quote from John Dean on this story:
"With all due respect, Attorney General Gonzales needs to read an American history book - to avoid relying on arguments rejected in the 18th Century when offered by those who opposed the adoption of our nation's founding charter. Every time Gonzales testifies, he leaves the Constitution a bit more battered by his right-wing gobbledygook and revisionist dogma. We are fortunate he seldom appears before Congress."
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