Closing Gitmo – The Executive Branch can not act alone

Even though President Obama directed the U.S. government to purchase the Thomson Correctional Center in Thomson, Ill. and house no more than 100 detainees from Guantanamo Bay in the facility, Congress still represents the people, and Congress may block Obama’s plan.I guess the Executive Branch needs to be reminded occasionally they can not make decisions unilaterally when it comes to domestic policy decisions. This goes double when there is a specific law against bringing detainees to the U.S. unless they will be prosecuted.

From the Washington Times this morning, Rep. John Boehner (R-Ohio) is saying Obama may have some issues getting his way.

Congress probably will be able to stop the Obama administration from bringing Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, detainees to U.S. soil, the Republican leader of the House said Thursday.

Rep. John A. Boehner, Ohio Republican, said that at least two pieces of legislation would have to go through Congress before the government can move any of the detainees to an Illinois prison – and he doubted either bill would pass. …

U.S. law bars Guantanamo detainees from being brought onto U.S. soil unless they are going to be prosecuted. Mr. Boehner suggested that provision would need to be changed.

The minority leader said the administration would also need to get congressional approval to fund the prison project.

What will we see the Obama administration pull to get their way? You know, bribes hidden in legislation and Chicago-brand political threats.

Just the normal crap…