The Politics of Habeas Corpus

Like many on the right, I am troubled by the practical implications of the Supreme Court's recent decision to extend the protections of habeas corpus to enemy combatants held at Guantanamo Bay.

On a political level, I agree with Jen Rubin at Contentions that this decision could provide a tactical opportunity for John McCain. In its recent ruling, the Supreme Court emphasized that Congress could still maintain the present system of military tribunals by voting to suspend the writ of habeas corpus. By proposing such a suspension, McCain would challenge Obama to a debate on national security that the Arizona senator is sure to win. Here's hoping, then, that at least some good will come out of the Boumediene decision.