Cagle Cartoons
ClassBrain & Cagle Cartoons
Current Events Project #2
By Cartoon: Nate Beeler, The Washington Examiner
Project: Cynthia Kirkeby
Apr 27, 2009, 09:20 PST

© RJ Matson, The St. Louis Post Dispatch 2009

During the Bush administration the President took stances on torture that were contrary to the United States' no torture policy of prior years. Waterboarding and other forms of torture became virtually commonplace. Since President Obama has taken office, he has taken the hard-line stance that the US does not engage in any form of torture, and that various US departments should disclose information to the public about prior acts. The opening of communication is in direct opposition to the veils of secrecy that prevailed under President Bush.

Thoughts to Ponder

• Do you think torture is necessary when dealing with terrorists?
• As Bush's policies are exposed, do you think the actions taken under his administration were justified or unjustified?
• Should the Guantanamo Bay facility be closed?
• Do you think that transparency of communication in government is important?
• Many states have "sunshine laws," which require state officials to hold all meetings open to the public, should there be a similar law implemented for most federal meetings?

Learning Links For Torture Policy