William H. Frist: “I rise to speak on leader time. I thank Senator McCain for his efforts on this very important issue that we have been…”

“I rise to speak on leader time. I thank Senator McCain for his efforts on this very important issue that we have been debating, talking about, and focusing upon for a long period of time. It is an important matter that affects both our American reputation abroad and the conduct of our military personnel in this global war on terrorism. It is important to state that the performance of American servicemembers in Iraq, Afghanistan, and elsewhere around the globe has been outstanding, has been inspiring, and truly representative of the best our Nation has to offer. This amendment strives to establish uniform standards for the interrogation of prisoners and detainees as a means for helping ensure our service men and women are well trained, well briefed, knowledgeable of their legal, professional, and moral duties and obligations. Therefore, I fully support the purpose and intent of this amendment, and although I understand it may require some fine-tuning to prevent any unintended consequences, I do intend to vote for it with that in mind. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. Chafee). The Senator from Alaska.”