Mocking Constitutional Rights

[marmar]

from Consortium News:



Mocking Constitutional Rights

By Nat Parry
September 10, 2008


On the third day of the Republican National Convention, GOP vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin mocked Barack Obama for believing that individuals accused of terrorism actually have rights under the law.

"Al-Qaeda terrorists still plot to inflict catastrophic harm on America,” Palin said, “and he’s worried that someone won’t read them their rights.”

The implication was that those suspected of being terrorists have no rights under domestic or international law. The line elicited thunderous approval from the party faithful gathered in St. Paul, Minnesota.

As the GOP delegates cheered, civil libertarians were reminded of the contempt that the Bush administration has shown to basic legal principles in its prosecution of the “war on terror,” and the resounding approval these policies have gotten from the Republican Party as a whole.

Perhaps viewers at home even nodded in agreement when thinking of the “catastrophic harm” that some individuals would like to inflict on America, and how important it is to keep America safe at all costs.

But just outside the convention hall, police offered a stark reminder of how important those rights are, especially considering how broadly the term “terrorism” can be applied to just about anyone who speaks out against government policies. .......(more)

The complete piece is at: http://www.consortiumnews.com/2008/091008a.html

[nykym]

1. Now that would make a compelling ad

scenes of protesters being arrested and mistreated while dear Sarah Palin is saying, “and he’s worried that someone won’t read them their rights.” and then the camera pulls back to reveal the RNC.

[Mopar151]

2. Ask any cop worth a badge...

If you don't read 'em their rights, it blows the bust. Fuck up the evidence, beat up the suspect, shoot at the neighbors - the "perp" ends up walkin'. SCOTUS or karma, it ends up the same.

[IndianaGreen]

3. Justice Scalia has openly spoken of reversing Miranda decision

Scalia thinks Mussolini was a great man!