WASHINGTON – The Obama Administration negotiated for the release of an American prisoner of war and secured his release in recent days.
American Sergeant Bowe Bergdahl had been held by the Taliban since 2009. He was re-united with his family in the United States in exchange for five Taliban prisoners being held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
The President, however, failed to notify Congress at least 30 days before the transfer or release of the Guantanamo detainees, as law requires. The Obama Administration cited concerns over Bergdahl’s health and safety.
In addition, the prisoner transfer is seen by some as a negotiation with terrorists, a practice supposedly never undertaken by the U.S. government.
However, others say that America never abandons its men and women in uniform, and the President did what he had to do to bring him home.
“Sgt. Bergdahl’s return is a powerful reminder of the enduring, sacred commitment our nation makes to all those who serve in uniform,” Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel said after Bergdahl’s release.
The following are questions posed by an Iowa Congressman, asking Iowans how they feel about the way Bergdahl’s release was secured. Which statement do you most agree with?
- I support the Administration’s actions. The most important consideration is the freedom and safety of an American POW.
- I support the Administration’s actions and no reason is needed.
- I do not support the Administration’s actions primarily because the United States government should never negotiate with terrorists.
- I do not support the Administration’s actions primarily because the trade of Taliban prisoners will hurt our national security.
- I do not support the Administration’s actions primarily because the President acted outside of the law.
- I do not support the Administration’s actions primarily because I have reservations about SGT Bergdahl’s service.
- I don’t know.
- I have another answer.
