Jackie Walorski: “In May, the President declared a renewed intention to transfer detainees from Guantanamo ``to the greatest extent…”

“In May, the President declared a renewed intention to transfer detainees from Guantanamo ``to the greatest extent possible.'' He also announced he was lifting his self-imposed suspension on the transfers of detainees to Yemen. This, I believe, is a dangerous policy. It is dangerous for our troops fighting overseas. It is also dangerous for citizens living in the homeland. The amendment I am offering prohibits the Department of Defense from transferring Gitmo detainees to Yemen for one year. In other words, this amendment simply puts into the law the President's previous judgment that transfers to Yemen should be suspended. Those listening to the debate today might be asking: ``Why is this prohibition needed?'' For starters, the Defense Department should not transfer detainees to Yemen because they represent some of the most dangerous terrorists known in the world. It is important to note that these individuals are still in Gitmo because even the Obama administration believes they are being legally held. The Bush administration didn't feel comfortable transferring these terrorists. After Yemen was the starting point for the foiled airline bombing over Detroit, the Obama administration correctly decided not to transfer these terrorists back to that troubled nation. These individuals pose a real threat to the United States. Detainees at Gitmo pose a real threat to our national security.…”