Justice Department's memo disregards rights
Since the terrorist attacks of 9/11, the U.S. federal government has grown in both size and authority, justifying its actions by claiming it is essential to protecting citizens from future attacks. One recent tactic employed by the government to eliminate terror threats is unmanned drones, which strike various targets. While it is certainly important to make changes to protect ourselves, we should view this expansion of power with a critical eye.
The U.S. Justice Department recently provided a memo to NBC news that detailed the legal case for drone strikes on American citizens. It states the government has the authority to order the killing of Americans believed to be senior leaders of a terrorist group.
While at first glance it appears necessary for the government to have this power to keep us safe, it should be examined more closely. The criteria for launching a strike on someone is disturbingly vague and does not require the person to be actively involved in a plot to attack the nation. Everyone should be concerned about this memo because it removes due process of law, meaning our government has given itself the power to kill citizens who have never been convicted of a crime, let alone had the opportunity to stand trial for their actions.
While everyone acknowledges legitimate terrorist threats are certainly out there, we need to make sure our elected officials understand that killing Americans without due process of law is not protecting freedom; it is infringing upon it.
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