Finally, An Attorney General Who Believes Waterboarding Is Torture

After years of having Justice Department officials skirt around the question of whether waterboarding is torture, it’s refreshing that Obama’s AG-designate stated upfront that this practice violates our basic tenets.  It’s certainly a departure from a vice president who admitted being involved in the waterboarding of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and who, in hindsight, doesn’t believe these tactics go too far.

In past hearings, Attorney General Michael Mukasey and his predecessor, Alberto Gonzales, frustrated senators by repeatedly sidestepping questions about waterboarding, a harsh interrogation tactic that simulates drowning.
The controversial tactic was the first topic discussed at Holder’s confirmation hearing, and he made an unambiguous statement about its nature: “Waterboarding is torture.”

And Holder reiterated Obama’s pledge go close Gitmo, while acknowledging that doing so would be difficult.  Some detainees could wind up in other counties, while others could be tried in US courts.  Still to be determined would be what to do with dangerous suspects who can’t be charged in civilian courts.

By: Alan

Alan Colmes is the publisher of Liberaland.