Lindsey Graham Statement on KSM Trial

WASHINGTON, DC – May 29, 2012 – U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SouthCarolina) released the following statement regarding a motion filed bydefense attorneys for KSM seeking dismissal of charges based on Graham’sobjections to using civilian courts for KSM and other 9/11co-conspirators:  

“I have been informed that the defense counselrepresenting Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and other 9/11 co-conspirators fileda motion to dismiss all charges based on unlawful influence by myself,President Bush, President Obama, Vice President Biden, and others.  “Istrongly believe in the right to counsel, and fully understand thedefense attorneys representing those accused of the 9/11 attacks have toadvocate vigorously for the interest of their clients. 

“As a United States Senator, I have to advocate for the best policiesfor the country as a whole.  I support an “all of the above” approachregarding the War on Terror, where Article Three civilian courts as wellas military tribunals are used to resolve terrorism cases.
 
“However, I strongly believe the attacks of 9/11 were not a commoncrime, but an act of war.  And in certain situations, militarycommissions and the law of war should apply. That is why I haveconsistently and vigorously advocated for the use of militarycommissions in situations involving top al-Qaeda leadership.
 
“I have done so consistent with the duties of a United States Senator, no more or no less.”