Only in a 'banana republic'?

lou — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 13:22:59 GMT

Banana republic?? This brilliant statement from the genius who brought us 'the magic bullet' theory.
Did Specter, Rove and others have a little meeting to decide how to demean the President this time, or is it just coincidence?? Hmmmm ... I wonder

Only in a 'banana republic'?

K. Lindsay — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 13:25:56 GMT

Or something the prior administration did to anyone who even questioned the policies and positions. That comment is rich..coming from a member of the party who spent 10's of millions investigating sex! I'd like to take some satisfaction that more than a few people are more than a little nervous and have to spend their ill-gotten gains on lawyers. That being said, I agree that we should put it behind us. Besides, the most criminal parties, The Decider Cheney & Rove have no conscience.

Only in a 'banana republic'?

Chandler W. — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 13:31:49 GMT

I have mixed emotions concerning this. Although America should never torture, and if we did,those who ordered it done need to be held responsible, I am not sure if prosecution, hence a trial, would be good for the country.

Wouldn't it be enough for the truth to be published, then let history judge those involved?

I can understand how torn the President is. As a Constitutional lawyer, as well as President of the U. S., he needs to uphold the Constitution. However, can't he do this without tearing the country apart with a prolonged trial?

With so many problems to be solved, I think President Obama is off to a good start in moving this country forward. Would prosecuting members of the previous administration distract us from solving these problems, such as health care, that have been put off for ages?

I remember the years spent impeaching President Clinton. While that was going on, Bin Laden was planning an attack. The impeachment procedings did nothing for this country but split it along party lines, which the Bush administration continued.

I hope Eric Holder takes into account all different ways in which those who are guilty can be held responsible without dividing our country further.

I would not want to be President Obama or Eric Holder at this point. They can't win with whatever they decide to do. Eithe the left will hate it - or the right will hate it.

Again, although I deplore what Bush and Cheney did, I question if out and out prosecution is counterproductive to our county.

Only in a 'banana republic'?

Houston — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 13:51:00 GMT

We just escaped becoming a banana republic three months ago when we got rid of the Banana Republicans using torture to extract false confessions and using the Justice Department for politically motivated prosecutions.

Only in a 'banana republic'?

Eric Holds the keys to Justice — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 13:55:02 GMT

But going after the prior administration sounds like something they do in Latin America in banana republics."
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Does that mean that "banana republics" have a greater respect for their laws?

Do South American nations have and support the understanding that no one, not even their leaders are above the law?

I believe that because this is America, we must lead by examlple. And if there was any administration that warranted making an example of, its the Bush administration.

Reversing destructive policy and observing the mere contrast of the previous and present is hardly enough to satisfy the requirements of justice as stated in our constitution.

It is unacceptable to our law abiding citezens and those throughout the world to think that we will just allow our previous leaders to just walk away from this mess without so much as an honest investigation, prosecution and fitting punishment if found guilty.

The notion that enforcing the law is an unnecessary look in the wrong direction or somehow just a partisan act of retribution is rediculous, morally bankrupt and could be seen as cowardice.

The tortured were not the only victims of the last administration's crimes as proven by the result of the vote on November 8 and the collective sigh of relief from the world on that day.

The joy expressed was not just because of the thrill of winning and the change we believed was coming, it was because we now had hope that justice would be sought, restored and served as part of that change.

However, I imagine, expect and understand why proper procedure, an effective legal strategy, irrefutable evidence, good timing and patience will be required to make sure that real justice is served.