The United States Constitution enshrines the right in Article I, Section 9, the Suspension Clause, which outlines under which highly specified conditions the Writ may be suspended.[1] While the Writ is not specifically granted to United States citizens, the Founders intended, and the Supreme Court agrees, that it was not explicitly mentioned because it was not perceived as necessary, the Writ being so fundamental to even British[2] government at the time of the Founding.
United States Attorney General Alberto Gonzalez disagrees with the Supreme Court on this issue, believing that there is no expressed grant of habeas corpus in the Constitution.[3]
At his presser today, Gonzo took full responsibility for the federal prosecutor purge, but not the blame. How much longer do you think this great legal mind can hang on to his job?
The man has put politics over the law and he is therefore not fit to serve in the capacity of a lawyer. I wonder if he can be disbarred.
Posted by: PeacechickMary | March 13, 2007 at 02:44 PM
Between this guy and Cheney...I'm really on the fence as to who would win in a "Scariest Scowl" contest. I mean, do either of those guys smile? Ever? Of course, if life as you know it was crashing in around you and all your buddies were being fired/prosecuted/eaten by Karl Rove...you'd probably be a bit scowly too.
Posted by: TheProudestMonkey | March 13, 2007 at 05:01 PM
Am I missing a nuance here?
At his presser today, Gonzo took full responsibility for the federal prosecutor purge, but not the blame.
how does one take "full responsibility" and not take "the blame"? I really have to know how this works because I want to use it in the future.
Posted by: SPIIDERWEB™ | March 13, 2007 at 05:56 PM
Isn't it funny how "strict constructionist" folks are? That is, until you mention that, you know, political contributions by corporations should be banned...
Posted by: actor212 | March 14, 2007 at 11:58 AM
Taking responsibility without taking the blame is business as usual with this administration. They should have been taught better in elementary school. Thats what I'm working on with my kids right now.
Posted by: Miss Cellania | March 15, 2007 at 07:19 AM
Hi,
If you like Habeas Corpus, then you'll love Ministry of Love! We've been protesting the Military Commissions Act, Orwell-style, since the day it was signed.
Find out more at http://ministryoflove.wordpress.com
Thanks,
O'Brien
Posted by: Comrade O'Brien | March 15, 2007 at 06:17 PM