Torture

Update Below

It is quite likely that we have reached the crux of our political life as a Nation. Apparently, certain Republican Senators, including Senator McCain, reached an agreement with George Bush regarding a bill which will allow a number of things that many of us consider completely intolerable. The President will be allowed to continue to use torture in secret prisions on those prisoners suspected of being terrorists (whatever that means these days).

But, don't take my word for it. An editorial in the Washington Post is pretty straightforward (for a change) saying:

In short, it's hard to credit the statement by Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) yesterday that "there's no doubt that the integrity and letter and spirit of the Geneva Conventions have been preserved." In effect, the agreement means that U.S. violations of international human rights law can continue as long as Mr. Bush is president, with Congress's tacit assent. If they do, America's standing in the world will continue to suffer, as will the fight against terrorism. (emphasis added)

Since, after the election the House may be revert do Democratic control, this bill will be pushed through the Senate and the House, through the conference Committee, and then voted on by both Chambers, within the next week! This will complete the certification process for Rogue State that Mr. Bush has been working towards for so long.

What is reasonable, let alone what is moral, has been shoved aside in favor of short term political gain. Namely, Bush's War on Terror, a War that has no true battle in 5 years, may yet tip the scales in the mid term elections.

We will be a Nation that tortures. And, because we are a democracy, you and I will share the responsibility. No matter that our leaders are mentally deranged. Those us of who are not, still bear the same burden.

God help us.

Update.: I have called both of my Senators and my Representative. Neither Senator seems to have any interest in this issue (one "hadn't developed a response" as if responding to torture was difficult) and all the Representative's spokesperson wanted was my address so they could send me campaign literature. Crimminy!