Washington, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement today after a House Armed Services Committee hearing on standards of military commissions and tribunals:

“Members of the House Armed Services Committee clearly heard today that the Judge Advocate Generals (JAGs) have key concerns with the Administration’s proposal for trials before military commissions.  These concerns underscore the necessity for Congress to step in and create a justice system that will determine the guilt and punishment of terrorists.

 “I can't help but think that if we had listened to the JAGs four years ago, we would have a strong system in place to prosecute and convict terrorists.

“Democrats want a tough system of justice that brings justice to Americans whose lives were destroyed by terrorism.”

“Under this Administration there have been no trials for terrorists, no convictions, and no justice for Americans.  The American public has waited 5 years for the Administration to get this right.  We are tired of waiting.  The President has failed.  Now Congress must act.”

“The President’s proposal is fatally flawed.  Based on what we know of his proposal, it will not pass muster with the Supreme Court.  If this happens we could be forced into another long legal struggle to provide justice for the victims of terrorism.  That is unacceptable.”

“It is up to Congress to get right where the President has gone wrong.  We cannot rubber stamp the President’s proposal.  We must pass a law that creates a strong and tough system that will bring justice to Americans whose lives have been destroyed by terrorism.”

Congressman Larsen, House Armed Services Committee member, represents Washington state’s 2nd Congressional District.

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