Thursday, March 7, 2013

My Own Short Filibuster


Article 2, section 1 of the US Constitution reads: 

Before he enter on the Execution of his Office, he shall take the following Oath or Affirmation:--"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."
Presidents have often, by custom, added "so help me God," though it is not part of the oath.  

It's more than a little disconcerting that our current president believes, as he was told by his Attorney General, that he has the authority to kill our citizens, in this country, by means of a drone strike.  That seems to be in total disagreement with our sixth amendment which says:

No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a grand jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the militia, when in actual service in time of war or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.” (italics mine)


It a appears clear to me that to use a drone to kill a citizen in this country would be a clear violation of this amendment, in more than one way. The death penalty requires that a capital offence be committed, an accusation must come by way of a Grand Jury and then due process must be used before the penalty is exacted from the guilty party. To summarily strike someone without regard for the guaranteed rights is to declare war on our constitution.  So, how can our president be protecting our constitution when he even asks if he has the authority to do such a thing? 




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