Reid Shifts On Gitmo After Obama Speech [View All]

Ryan Grim

Reid: Obama Speech Opens Way For Gitmo Closure Discussion


First Posted: 05-21-09 02:08 PM | Updated: 05-21-09 02:48 PM




Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) said Thursday he was open to discussing with President Obama the closure of the prison at Guantanamo Bay and the relocation of detainees.

That discussion will include the possible relocation of detainees to the United States to stand trial and, if convicted, be sent to prison. But Reid did not back off his previously stated opposition to such a transfer, stopping short at a willingness to talk about it.

First, said Reid, Congress needs to see a detailed plan.

"Many Americans have had concerns about terrorists coming into our communities. We received today a broad vision from President Obama and that's important that he did that. We're all awaiting the details of his plan. And he's going to come up with one," said Reid. "We're wanting and willing to work with him to come up with a responsible solution."

Pressed as to whether he'd allow the relocation of prisoners to the United States, he said, "I think I've answered the question." Reid is up for reelection in 2010.

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http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/05/21/reid-obama-speech-opens-w_n_206418.html