What a repugnant subject to be discussing at the highest levels of government: the pros and cons of torture.

Using water-boarding as the primary example of “torture,” former Vice President Dick Cheney has said those who used this technique “should be decorated.” This in spite of our nation signing the UN Convention Against Torture in 1994.

Article 2 of the Convention states:

“No exceptional circumstances whatsoever, whether a state of war or a threat of war, internal political instability, or any other public emergency, may be invoked as a justification of torture.”

To the best of my knowledge there is no caveat which states something like “the preceding applies unless it is determined the end justifies the means!”

Politicians often talk about “the slippery slope” when it comes to proposed legislation. It’s the old foot in the door theory or “what will be next?” Interestingly enough, Mr. Cheney and those who think as he does have conveniently ignored this basic political thought. Can you imagine what would happen if IRS investigators were allowed to use some form of enhanced interrogation techniques? While this is a nonsensical idea we must never condone even the smallest degree of torture because who knows where it will lead.

I think the most telling moment in this entire debate was when Mr. Brennan, the head of the CIA, was asked if he thought the information gained by water-boarding could also have been obtained using accepted interrogation procedures and he said, “We’ll never know the answer to that question.” Asked if water-boarding works he responded “that also is unknowable.”

Ann and I say no to torture -- period! And if the President should call we will tell him we strongly endorse his Cuban initiative. That should make his day.

Here’s hoping for a better world next year!