Now that he's President, it appears Obama will implement his campaign promise to have the military guidelines govern interrogation techniques. However, he is also considering expanding the military guidelines to permit more aggressive techniques:
"At least two more executive orders are expected in coming days, according to two Obama officials.
One official said the first will require all U.S. personnel to follow the U.S. Army Field Manual while questioning detainees. The manual explicitly prohibits threats, coercion, physical abuse and waterboarding, which creates the sensation of drowning and has been termed a form of torture by critics.
The second order will set up a study of interrogation methods that could be added to the Army manual, including some that may be more aggressive than those currently permitted."
Obama's governing style is to present himself as bipartisan by appearing even-handed, but this is also an example of how Obama's vague campaign promises did not clarify what he might do as President. Some people may be glad he's willing to consider Bush Administration policies, while others will be unhappy. I think this makes Obama look devious, and we don't need another President in the mold of Richard Nixon.
No comments:
Post a Comment