Bush administration misconduct hearings: Liveblog Part 8

By GottaLaff

Frederick A.O. Schwarz (NYU, fmr. Chief Counsel, Church Committee): In our efforts to protect ourselves, we've adopted tactics of the enemy: torture. We've abandoned the rule of law. Cheney has said he wants monarchical powers for the presidency. He still does. We've gotten resistance from our closest allies now... Britain, for example (because of rendition). I recommend that Congress and new president sign a bill to set up an indep. and bipartisan commission. I don't recommend impeachment, too late. We need to know the full truth. That restores moral luster, which is a great part of our strength. It might be embarrassing, but our strength is to confront our mistakes and resolve not to repeat them. ... This should bring Americans together. ... the U.S. must not adopt the tactics of the enemy, means are as important as ends, crisis makes it tempting to ignore wise restraints, but if we do so, our inner strength is lessened, the strength that makes us free.

Elliot Adams, President of Vets for Peace: Republic or monarchy? Impeach. There's no question of criminal offenses. But what will Congress do? It's about maintaining the structure of our government. To let this go unanswered is an assault to the institution of the law. Torture is illegal, but it also ruins the integrity of intel. Any torture victim will say whatever they want him to say. [refutes arguments against impeachment, mocks a little] It's your time to stand up. Politics can't get in the way.