Quote Originally Posted by Lemurmania
The torture problem is systemic, and it's not being used just with high-value targets. And it's not being used just for time-sensitive data. What we have is a leadership problem, a classic failure to provide clear direction. If the McCain amendment is what it takes to clear this mess up, then so be it.
That's almost exactly what I'm saying. Bush had many opportunities to outline some clear rules on detainee treatment- he decided not to and because of his unwillingness to compromise, we're now totally losing what can be an important intelligence gathering technique due to his stubborness. McCain is grandstanding, as usual (he's a presidential candidate afterall)- but Bush all but brought these new regulations on himself. He's facing the same problem with the Patriot Act, imo. Instead of allowing time for debate on it's provisions he tried to stifle it by ramming it through at the last possible minute and sabotaging any short-term extensions. Again in this case, his brinkmanship seems like it's going to blow up in his face and leave him without any of the provisions once it expires.