Last week ten (TEN!) candidates for the Republican 2008 presidential nomination gathered to introduce themselves to the American people. It was damn ugly.

A lot of attention has been paid to the who does not believe in evolution question, and rightfully so (it's not a litmus test of faith, it's a litmus test of the capacity for rational thought), but the questions I most wanted answered were never asked.

As a former New England Republican myself I view GOP debates through a lens of fiscal conservatism mixed with a tinge of libertarian sensibility. I would have liked to have heard the candidates views on the difficult questions which threaten the very fabric of our nation today. Specifically their stances on habeas corpus, posse comitatus, and the Cheneyite School of the Unitary Executive. While the candidates did comment on abortion, tax policy, stem cell research, and the possibility of a national identity card - for immigrants and guest workers - they were not asked for their thoughts on signing statements, warrantless wiretaps, extraordinary rendition, or the use of private contractors to perform military duties.

The answers to these questions are vitally important for candidates from both parties to answer, but particularly so for Republicans. Since 2000 the Bush Administration has consistently reinterpreted the Constitution of the United States in such a way that diminishes individual liberties and circumvents traditional checks on tyranny while maximizing its own authority. These are not soundbite issues. These are fundamental questions that will define American character for generations to come.

Labels: 2008 Election, Extraordinary Rendition, GOP, Unitary Executive, warrantless wiretaps