GOP approves indefinite detention

Thanks to GOP, House Votes Down NDAA Amendment Prohibiting Indefinite Detention of U.S. Citizens

This morning, the House voted down the Smith-Amash amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which would have prohibited the government from indefinitely detaining U.S. citizens without trial.  A vote of 182-237 struck down the bipartisan Amendment that Adam Smith (D-Wash.) and Justin Amash (R-Mich.) introduced. Only 19 Republicans, compared to 163 Democrats, supported the bill. 

While Obama has pledged not to use his power to enforce indefinite detention in the United States, the legislation still paves the way for future Presidents to do  exactly that. Rep. Smith explained the importance of his legislation:    Read more

By Kristen Gwynne and Angela Lee | AlterNet