Jack Reed: “Every 4 years an individual chosen by the American people steps forward to assume the awesome responsibilities as…”

“Every 4 years an individual chosen by the American people steps forward to assume the awesome responsibilities as President of the United States. His first act is to take this oath: I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the office of the President of the United States and I will, to the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States. George W. Bush took this oath on January 20, 2001, and again a few days ago on January 20, 2005. His overarching responsibility is to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution. In order to protect, preserve, and defend the Constitution, you must understand what it says. As such, a President must rely on the advice of his legal counsel. Alberto Gonzales has served as President Bush's legal counsel since 2001. In this capacity, he has provided advice to him that, in my view, ignores both the letter and spirit of the Constitution and the President's critical responsibility to preserve, protect, and defend it. Through his advice, he has set in motion policies that have harmed our interests at home and abroad. Our Nation was founded by men and women fleeing severe political and religious persecution. Wary of authoritarian government or religious leaders, they created a nation by and for the people, a nation committed to the rule of law and the notion that every person has certain inalienable rights. Our Founding Fathers very deliberately did not create a new monarchy.”