September 18, 2007 8:48 AM

Habeas Day

We want to restore Habeas Corpus. And so do most Americans.

At least that's the word from OpenLeft and the results of the polling they commissioned on the topic:

Americans respond strongly to the message that current policy is un-American and contradicts basic American values, especially freedom. Two of the three most convincing pro-habeas messages tested make the case that the Bush policy violates core American values. By appealing to voters' pride in America as a beacon of freedom, these messages resonate even with many who would not instinctively oppose the administration.

* The current policy is un-American and contradicts basic American values. We are people who believe in freedom and human rights. We need to defend ourselves against terrorism, but to do that we don't have to give up the values that make America great. (60% very convincing)
* Countries such as Cuba, China, and North Korea deny the right of judicial review to those imprisoned by the government. That is not the kind of company the United States of America wants to keep. (60% very convincing)

Yesterday was Constitution Day -- a little-known enough holiday, but a perfect occasion to talk about our founding document...and to recognize that Americans still value Constitutional rights at a core level.

So what better time to bring back those old time traditions -- you know, the Constitutional ones. Let your Senators and Representatives know, we want our Habeas back.