I have been calling Democratic Senators for torture all morning [View All]

[Generic Other]

Calling the Senate this morning looking for answers and to let them know how I feel living in America the day after our civil liberties have been suspended.

I intend to call them all by the end of the day. If anyone else happens to call and get some answers, please feel free to post them to this thread. I think we are entitled to explanations. I also think we are hitting nerves. They sound like they are getting lots of negative calls. A lot of defensiveness, a slight edge in the tones of the aides.

I am starting with the Democrats but then I plan to move on to the Republicans.

Here's what I heard so far:

Stabenow’s office—Mr. Perky appreciates my call, but will not explain senator’s vote, has nothing to say at all in fact.

Landrieu’s office—a soft Southern white woman’s accent assures me the senator votes for the interests of the people of Louisiana. When asked if that includes torture, the aide says she did not vote for torture but in order to allow detainees to be questioned. When I question Landrieu’s democratic credentials, I am told to have a good day before the aide hangs up on me.

Salazar’s office—No one answering the phone.

Rockefeller’s office—The aide has no answer for why his senator voted as he did. Tells me to go to his webpage for an explanation. Then hangs up on me.

Pryor’s office—The senator voted for this legislation because it would protect American servicemen. When I argued that it would open them up to torture and inhumane treatment, the aide fell silent. She seemed on the verge of tears. Thanked me for calling.

Nelson of Nebraska’s office—Voted for torture to help the military in their mission. Unable to answer the question of how such legislation would help the military men and women it has put in danger.

Nelson of Florida’s office—Congress needed a policy to protect the military. No explanation for why this particular legislation would do that. Aide did acknowledge Nelson is running for re-election this November.


on edit: Here's where I got their phone numbers
http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm