NYT's Scathing Criticism of Obama's Use of Executive Power

Yesterday, the New York Times issued an Op-Ed piece criticizing the Obama Administration for continuing national security practices based on the Bush Administration's expansive interpretation of executive power.

The continuation of the Bush version of the State Secrets Doctrine, and delays in the promised closure of the Guantanamo Bay facility reflect a few examples of political and constitutional challenges facing the current White House. In many ways, the NYT piece reflects frustration with these challenges, as well as what many perceive to be a lack of Presidential will.

Difficulties Facing the Closure of Guantanamo

As the Voice of America news agency reported earlier this week, Attorney General Holder has indicated that full closure of the Guantanamo detention center by late January of 2010 will be difficult. President Obama has previously asserted his aim to close Guantanamo by this date as part of his administration's effort to restore America's international image.

As US officials strive to meet this deadline, strong Congressional opposition to holding Guantanamo detainees on mainland American soil has likely made matters more difficult. Conversely, President Obama's recent acceptance of the Nobel Peace Prize may have added to the political pressure supporting prompt closure of the detention facility.

For more on this story, please visit Globalsecurity.org.