America's Honor

Here’s what I believe: Honor is the core of American Freedom. Honor and Freedom are why our military serve and why they are willing to pay the ultimate price. Although it was natural to want revenge for the terrible atrocities of 9/11/01 on American soil, we cannot sink to the level of terrorists and dictators by euphemizing, condoning or justifying torture. If we do, then we’re no better than the basest terrorist or dictator! Torture is a war crime and we have historically ensured that those who are guilty of causing it, are severely punished. Our government’s behavior in recent years has made all Americans LESS safe, at home and abroad. It’s about time we admit our mistakes and cleanse our tarnished reputation. This does not, as some cry, make us look weak – just the contrary: those who admit their errors and take steps to correct them, are always viewed as stronger and more honorable than those who continue to deny and deceive. America is not above the law. As a free democracy, we honor and protect the law, and I’m extremely proud of our new administration for reminding us.