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“ Democratic priorities are clear: we will fight to get the economy back on track, we will create jobs, and we will help unemployed workers. ” |
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Pelosi: ‘Torture is Not Consistent with American Values’
Washington, D.C. – House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi joined other Democratic leaders at a press stakeout this morning after the Democratic Caucus meeting to discuss the House Republicans’ opposition to banning torture. Below are Pelosi’s remarks:
"Thank you very much, Mr. Menendez. I want to commend you, the Chairman of our Caucus, for your leadership on these issues, about honoring our responsibility to the American people. To protect them is our first responsibility. And what is happening in Iraq raises a big question as to whether it is making America safer.
"When we put our young men and women in harm’s way, we always owe the American people the truth, and that is what the Congress is asking the President for: the truth.
"I served many years on the Intelligence Committee, and I know we endanger our own troops and personnel when we use torture, because it can be used on them. The quality of intelligence that is collected by torture is worthless – it is uncorroborated and it is worthless. We have the know-how, the personnel, and the resources in our country to protect the American people in a way that protects our values, that reflects the priorities of our citizens. And that means not using torture.
"I urge the Speaker to appoint House conferees to the defense appropriations bill immediately so that Congressman Murtha can offer his motion to instruct conferees, which would demonstrate the House’s strong opposition to the torture of detainees. We must send a clear message to the world that torture is not consistent with American values."
“ Democrats are united in presenting a New Direction for America, one that will make our nation as strong as its people, one that brings opportunity, security, and prosperity to all Americans. ”
Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi
