Terror Trials in New York City: Scott Hinkley

I think it is a smart decision to prosecute these war criminals in New York City, and a responsible decision to do so within the collective gaze of the public-eye. Since the attack, I feel Americans have been psychologically scarred by the side-effects of our government's clandestine approaches for seeking information and justice, and that moving this trial out into the open seems to be a wise approach to finding resolution and healing amongst ourselves and with the rest of the world. The Republican reaction of allowing Fox News to layout a rebuttal of fear does little more for me that make them seem increasingly nervous about the political fallout of having been so arrogant and self-righteous in their initial approach to this issue.

Back when things were going their way, the Republicans had suggested that questioning, let along outright opposing, the decisions of our president and the attorney general on the issue of 9/11 justice was a matter of treason, and that a lack of unified action threatened to make us even more vulnerable to physical and ideological attacks. Now, with the shoe so squarely shifted, it seems as if that argument has long since lost its appeal. America continues to weaken it position as a world power as our under-educated and xenophobic minority lets fear, greed and pride cloud it judgement.

I am reminded of a recent contestant on a reality show, who, when faced with a challenge she so wholly feared (in this case going down a waterside), spouted rants about the stupidity of both the challenge and the slide itself rather than have to admit that she was afraid. I don't know about any of you, but I'm scared half-to-death, but while at least half of me is still kicking, I'd rather be strong and admit I'm uncertain about the outcome. Leaders govern with virtue, while despots rule with fear. Let's be leaders for a change.

Email Scott