Sending code

I agree with Hilzoy that Ass Rocket, or whichever one he is, is the paragon of modern decency by declaring waterboarding akin to "getting your face wet."

So what was Obama's purpose in implying that until he came along, his own government was engaged in torturing prisoners? His speech was carried live by Al Jazeera and Al Arabiya, broadcast into countries where "torture" doesn't mean getting your face wet. Obama at least impliedly exaggerated the supposed sins of his predecessors and the "change" brought about by himself. Why? For what purpose? Isn't the campaign over?"

But I'd take it further. And yes, Frank Gaffney, Obama is sending code. But it's not "submission to sharia law." He's aware the speech was carried by AJ and AA -- he's telling viewers in Syria, Saudia Arabia, etc. that not only will the U.S. not torture prisoners, their own governments should consider stopping the practice as well.

Calling the entire Middle East "our enemies" has not gone so well for us. But old habits die hard and this new fangled idea of "engagement" as opposed to advertising campaigns is hard for ideologues and nut cases to wrap their brains around.