Leahy is right, and I applaud his call for a commission to do a full investigation, not just piecemeal bits and parts by a dozen committees.Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy insisted on Monday in firm and passionate terms that a comprehensive investigation be launched into the conduct of the Bush administration, saying anything less would prevent the country from moving forward.
Speaking at a forum at Georgetown University, the Vermont Democrat suggested the creation of a truth and reconciliation commission to uncover the "misdeeds" of the past eight years.
"Many Americans feel we need to get to the bottom of what went wrong," said Leahy. "We need to be able to read the page before we turn the page."
I just hope the Republicans don't get the idea to hold the economic recovery act hostage to an agreement not to investigate. If they try that, I hope the Democrats have the guts to expose their trying to play politics with the Constitution.
Ralph
Asked about Leahy's proposal in his news conference tonight, Obama said he hadn't seen the proposal, but he reiterated that "no one is above the law" and that his general approach is to move forward rather than looking back.
ReplyDeleteMy take on that answer is that he would oppose a large scale investigation like Leahy seems to be suggesting. But also, if they uncover any clear cut evidence of illegal activity, say in the Justice Department, then they should pursue prosecution. In fact, he used the word "prosecute."
Leahy is talking about something different though in calling for a "truth and reconciliation" commission. That would give people immunity from prosecution in exchange for truthfully telling what happened.
It's what Bishop Tutu spearheaded in South Africa that was so helpful in coming to terms with apartheid.
... and it's what you've said all along. It's not for Obama to decide, and I doubt he will try to stop them other that say what he thinks. He's got other fish to fry...
ReplyDelete