Bob Barr Challenges John McCain to Debate “Worst” Supreme Court Decision

Bob Barr Challenges John McCain to Debate “Worst” Supreme Court Decision;
Barr Says Decision a Victory for Rule of Law, Constitution

“The U.S. Supreme Court affirmed the importance of the ancient writ of habeas corpus, one of the bedrock guarantees of American liberty,” says Bob Barr, the Libertarian Party candidate for president. The procedure, which predates America’s founding in British legal tradition, forces the government to justify an arrest in court. However, Sen. John McCain called the decision “one of the worst decisions in the history of this country.” That is quite charge given a legal history that includes Supreme Court opinions such as Dred Scott, observes Barr.

“The Court’s habeas corpus decision was a victory for all Americans more than any particular litigant, since it affirmed the duty of the executive branch to obey the law,” Barr explains. The president and his aides have been claiming to possess extravagant and unaccountable authority, and the justices clearly said “no more.” In fighting terrorism “we must not sacrifice those liberties which make America the unique nation that it is,” Barr adds.

“I challenge Sen. McCain to debate the role of habeas corpus and other constitutional protections for civil liberties in the fight against terrorism,” says Barr. Sen. McCain, the president, and almost the entire Republican Party apparently believe that our freedom is a luxury to be sacrificed whenever the president wishes. “That is not the America I know and love,” Barr affirms, “I believe the government’s most fundamental duty is to respect our liberties, and the executive branch must be held accountable for every new power that it acquires over the American people.”

Barr suggests that he and Sen. McCain approach such leading legal organizations as the ACLU and Federalist Society to jointly host a debate. “I’m ready to meet Sen. McCain any time and any place,” says Barr.