Political Quotes

“the American people are justifiably scared. They have good reason to look at Michael Fay, or petty vandals here at home, and say, ``He deserves whatever he gets.'' But the American people must remember that torture has never, in any country, improved the quality of life or effected better justice. Torture is not a punishment. Torture is itself a crime. And crimes committed by governments in the name of ``law and order'' have never made any nation a better or safer place to live. Madam President, the caning portion of Fay's sentence was executed yesterday. Michael Fay will remain in a Singapore jail until June 21, at the earliest. Reports indicate that Fay's medical condition is satisfactory. But I fear what the long-term emotional consequences of this corporal punishment will be for Michael Fay. I also fear what is happening here in our own country. As Michael Fay moves on with his life, let us all take a step back. Let us look at the punishment he underwent. Let us be truthful--Michael Fay was tortured. He is no better for it. Singapore is no better for it. And in the nations that still employ corporal punishment and other forms of torture, those societies are no better for it. We see sometimes in reports from other countries where people's hands are cut off. No evidence that in those countries crime is any the less. The solution for crime in those countries, for Singapore, and for crime in America is justice--efficient and effective.…”