For Immediate Release: September 27, 2012
Contact: Samantha Friedman, office: (202) 265-3000 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
National religious coalition reiterates opposition to torture
National Religious Campaign Against Torture says candidates, elected officials must uphold American values in national security efforts
Washington, D.C. – The New York Times reports that Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney’s advisers have suggested he revoke President Obama’s executive order banning torture and permit the secret use of torture in intelligence gathering, often referred to as “enhanced interrogation techniques.” The National Religious Campaign Against Torture’s executive director, Rev. Richard Killmer, responded to the report with the following statement:
"In 2008, both Senator John McCain and then-Senator Barack Obama publicly declared their opposition to torture and their desire to see America adhere to the best of its values. While differing on many issues, both candidates agreed that our country should be above reproach with respect to the treatment of prisoners.
While some of Gov. Romney’s advisers are reported to have suggested that he should return us to the dark days of secret torture – and, truthfully, “enhanced interrogation techniques” is a euphemism for torture – Mr. Romney should have the courage to reject this dangerous advice and join his party’s 2008 presidential nominee in rejecting torture. All prisoners deserve, by the rules of law and morality, to be treated humanely.
As people of faith, the members and supporters of the National Religious Campaign Against Torture believe that all people have been granted inherent dignity and worth by their Creator. Our country has long provided leadership in the effort to protect people from torture, and our moral legacy depends upon our continued commitment to that goal. Our presidential nominees and all elected officials and those aspiring to public office should continue that tradition."
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