Let's talk prisoner exchange

“We don’t negotiate with terrorists, right?”

This was one thought running through the minds of many Americans as they heard of President Obama’s exchange of five Guantanamo detainees for an American prisoner of war, Bowe Bergdahl.

People who oppose the decision place the blame on the president. They say he was out of line to negotiate with the terrorists.

They also claim he does not have the authority to make a deal without first asking permission from Congress.

The problem with these claims is that these “rules” basically fly out the window when it comes to war.

It is almost necessary to negotiate with terrorists if we want to make any progress, especially when it comes to prisoners of war.

Any look back into history will tell you this is true.

This shouldn’t change even if the reason for a prisoner’s disappearance is still unknown.

Many of the American people are also criticizing President Obama for his decision because he did not bring up the idea to Congress before negotiating.
Some people may say he is abusing his power, but I disagree.

The reason we elect a president is to lead our country and make executive
decisions.

What’s the point of electing someone to lead us if he can’t make decisions on his own when necessary?

Congress can take forever to decide things and take action. This situation had to be dealt with in a timely manner.

Whether the exchange will be beneficial to our fight on terrorism is yet to be determined.

But as for the criticism of the President’s actions, at least he got a soldier home.

­syrafter@indiana.edu