Anti-Torture Bill Passes the Senate

The Senate voted today to support an anti-torture measure that would bring the CIA into line with the Army's Field Manual -- prohibiting such tactics, including water boarding. This is the press release from the National Religious Campaign against Torture:

February 13, 2008
For more information contact: Linda Gustitus (202-557-8867)

NRCAT Praises Senate Vote to Stop CIA "Enhanced Interrogation" Program(Washington, D.C.)
Statement of National Religious Campaign Against Torture (NRCAT) President Linda Gustitus on Senate vote on Intelligence Authorization Conference Report:

"Congress has spoken with a majority voice against the CIA's use of 'enhanced interrogation techniques' as authorized by the President. These techniques have included torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. Our country and the world are breathing a sigh of relief. Now it is up to the President to sign this bill and make the CIA comply with the Army Field Manual while conducting interrogations. If he does so, then we will finally be able to turn the page on this shameful period of history."

National Religious Campaign Against Torture 316 F Street NE, Suite 200Washington, DC 20002

Both California senators voted for the amendment. Unfortunately John McCain, apparently needing to consolidate conservative votes, voted against the bill -- which is a surprise since he has stood strongly against the Bush position on torture. Obama and Clinton both away campaigning didn't vote. I would expect them to return to Washington to overturn a Bush veto.