Here's one reason why drone warfare and targeted killing don't really get discussed in Washington unless there's a memo leak or a protest: There's bipartisan consensus to whistle awkwardly and let the system continue. At Speaker of the House John Boehner's weekly press conference, PRI's Todd Zwillich asked whether the most powerful Republican in the country, a "constitutional officer," had any concerns about targeted killing. After all, Congress could hold hearings. Congress could cut funding.
(ht Travis Holte)"[House Intelligence Committee] Chairman Mike Rogers put out a statement yesterday," said Boehner, "and I agree with that statement."He didn't quote the statement, but what Rogers said yesterday was that targeted killing of American citizens was a "lawful act of national self-defense." Via the AP:When an individual has joined al-Qaida — the organization responsible for the murder of thousands of Americans — and actively plots future attacks against U.S. citizens, soldiers, and interests around the world, the U.S. government has both the authority and the obligation to defend the country against that threat.
Is it just me, or does this look like a bit of misdirection!?
ReplyDeleteAt least this puts the whole debate about the legality of torture to bed. If it's legal to summarily murder somebody, it's obviously legal to torture them, too.
ReplyDeleteThe bipartisan support is a reflection of the popularity of the program with the sheeple. That is one reason I avoid reading the comments on MSM articles, too depressing. Holland's (France) popularity went from 25% to 80% by invading Mali. Who cares if he is stealing our property, he is willing to kill! woohoo.
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