Dear Friends,
In less than one week, Barack Obama will become the 44th President of the United States and the Bush Administration will come to an end.
As we celebrate the beginning of what will be a transformational American presidency, it is important to recognize the numerous vital changes that will occur immediately when the 44th President takes the oath of office.
Soon after our new President departs the Capitol on January 20th, a bevy of new Executive Orders will likely be issued that will undo many damaging Bush policies. At the same time, critical new safeguards and progressive policies will become law, likely including:
- closing of the prison at Guantanamo Bay,
- restoring Habeas Corpus for detainees,
- renewing America's commitment to the Geneva Convention, and
- limiting the use of signing statements.
Above all, President-elect Obama has promised to issue an Executive Order banning the use of torture. The use of torture including waterboarding, by our government is a black mark upon the conscience of our nation and a policy that has made us less safe. Just today, the Washington Post outlines how the torture of the suspected "20th" 9/11 hijacker has tainted evidence and made prosecution more difficult. The reversal of this Bush Administration policy will renew the moral authority that our nation rightly deserves overseas and will make us more successful in the war on terror.
The importance of our victory in November cannot be understated. Barack Obama's leadership will carry us not only through an economic recovery, but also through a constitutional recovery. His work will systematically restore honor and purpose to our federal government.
As you know, I worked closely with President-elect Obama in his campaign. I am convinced he will restore our commitment to human rights, civil rights, and the overarching principles of our Constitution.
Tuesday will be joyous, but at the same time we will soberly reflect on the difficult challenges before our nation. In the days and weeks ahead, we will deliver actual, tangible change. Change we have been fighting for.
Thank you for standing with me. I intend to continue to act as your progressive voice in Congress. Under this President we finally have a chance to deliver on our goals and realize our ideals for our nation and our community.
Stay in touch and stay active.
With warm regards,
Congressman Robert Wexler
www.wexlerforcongress.com