Wilson Speaks to Halt Transfer of Guantanamo Detainees
Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) spoke on the House Floor urging the passage of H.R. 5351, to prohibit the transfer of any individual detained at United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, legislation that would halt the transfer of any detainee, to any location.
Remarks as prepared for delivery:
“Thank you Congressman Forbes for yielding. I am grateful to be an original co-sponsor of H.R. 5351, prohibiting the transfer of Guantanamo detainees. While Congress has passed legislation barring Guantanamo detainees from being transferred to the United States, this bill, introduced by Congresswoman Jackie Walorski, further protects American families by halting the transfer of any detainee to any location.
During the August recess, the Administration released fifteen dangerous detainees from Guantanamo Bay—the single largest release of prisoners under the current President. And he has plans to release more—20 of the remaining 61 detainees at Guantanamo have already been cleared for release.
The President’s reckless release of detainees in an effort to close Guantanamo puts American service members and families at risk.
In March, the Director of National Intelligence reported that at least 116 detainees, nearly one-third—released from Guantanamo have returned to the battlefield, providing reinforcements to Islamic terrorists, to attack American soldiers.
I appreciate the leadership of Congresswoman Jackie Walorski for sponsoring this legislation, and urge my colleagues to vote in support.”