U.S. Representative John R. Carter

Washington, Apr 20, 2005 -

When Thaddeus Stevens was a young lawyer, he once had a case before a bad-tempered judge of an obscure Pennsylvania court. Under what he considered a very erroneous ruling, the case was decided against him. Stevens threw down his books and picked up his hat in a state of indignation, scattering imprecations all around him. The judge assumed an air of offended majesty, and asked Stevens if he meant to "express your contempt for this court." Stevens turned to him very politely, made a respectful bow, and feigned amazement. "Express my contempt for this court? No, sir. I am trying to conceal it, your Honor, but I find it hard to do."

Today I am finding it difficult to conceal my contempt for a legal system that condones a revolving door release for terrorist who commit crimes against this nation. As a former State District Judge for over 20 years, I have presided over five capital murder trails, three of which resulted in the death penalty. I have a unique perspective on the criminal system, and I understand the importance of safety and the need for America to be tough on its criminals.

Our nation first realized its vulnerability ten years ago this week during the Oklahoma City Bombing, and than again, on September 11, 2001. We must protect our neighborhoods from the threat of violent crimes, which, unfortunately in today’s world, includes the threat of terrorist attacks. Congress must act to protect U.S. citizens from such attacks and bring justice to those who threaten our freedoms.

It is unimaginable to think that a convicted terrorist responsible for American deaths could serve his or her sentence and be released back onto American streets, free to act as he or she chooses. My straight-forward legislation, which was introduced into the House this week, will make any terrorist who kills eligible for the federal death penalty. This legislation will also deny these same terrorists any federal benefits they may have been eligible to receive.

In my experience as a Judge, I have witnessed the death penalty used as an important tool in deterring crime and saving lives. I believe it is also a tool that can also deter acts of terrorism, and it serves as a tool for prosecutors when negotiating sentences.

I am pleased the President has expressed his support for this legislation. In a speech to the FBI Academy in 2003, the President said, "For the sake of the American people, Congress should change the law, and give law enforcement officials the same tools they have to fight terror that they have to fight crime."

In April of 2003, while in Hershey, Pennsylvania, the President again emphasized the inequity in current law. I agree with the President, "We ought to be sending a strong signal: If you sabotage a defense installation or nuclear facility in a way that takes an innocent life, you ought to get the death penalty, the federal death penalty."

I decided to run for Congress in response to the greatest domestic terrorist attack in history on September 11, 2001. I am sponsoring this legislation today to put all would-be terrorists on notice that they will receive the ultimate justice should they decide to plan and execute a future attack.