Senator Barbara Boxer Answers Our Questions
In early September, MitzVote sent a questionnaire to candidates we wanted to learn more about. We’ve just received our answers from California Senator Barbara Boxer — the Democratic incumbent who is fighting Republican Carly Fiorina to defend her seat — via Boxer campaign research director Rosa Po. Here’s what Boxer had to say, word for word and hot off the … inbox.
(For the record: MitzVote still awaits Fiorina’s answers. Read more of our coverage on this race here.)
MitzVote: What is your position on each of the following?: Closing of Guantanamo bay and transfer of its remaining residents to a U.S. prison facility; warrantless wiretapping; the use on suspected terrorists of waterboarding and other treatments that were described by President Bush as “enhanced interrogation techniques” but which critics have labeled torture; prosecuting government officials or contractors who authorized or practiced these techniques.
Boxer: I would like to see a more detailed plan from the administration regarding exactly where prisoners will be held and how the safety of Americans will be ensured before we proceed on closing the military prison at Guantanamo Bay. I oppose warrantless wiretapping and torture, including waterboarding. I do not oppose the prosecution of government officials or contractors who practice torture.
Do you support U.S. policy calling for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict? If not, what solution does she support? What is her position on the settlements in Israel and the current settlement freeze? What Israeli actions or decisions does she support or oppose?
I recently spearheaded a letter to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton urging her to do everything possible to facilitate direct negotiations between the Israelis and the Palestinians, while reaffirming the “unbreakable bonds that tie the United States and Israel together.” I support the two-state solution, and I am heartened by the direct talks between Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Abbas. As for extending the settlement freeze, this is one among many issues on the table for Israel and the Palestinians to negotiate. I believe that the United States can help facilitate the peace process, but that we should not interfere or stipulate the conditions of other countries’ bilateral negotiations.
What should be done to address the growing threat from Iran’s nuclear development efforts?
I have always fought for tough multilateral and unilateral sanctions against Iran. In the Senate, I recently fought for the passage of the Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act, which was signed into law on July 1, 2010. In addition, I support state and local efforts to divest their interests in companies that do business with Iran. When it comes to Iran, nothing should be taken off the table.
What position do you take regarding Park51, the planned Islamic cultural center near Ground Zero?
I believe the people of New York City should decide this issue. As a former county supervisor, I believe that land use issues should be decided at the local level by the people who are directly affected.
Do you support or oppose a woman’s right to abortion as set down in the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court ruling? What is her position on gay marriage?
I strongly support reproductive rights and marriage equality.
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