November 16, 2009
Posted: November 16th, 2009 04:06 PM ET

Washington (CNN) – Two-thirds of Americans disagree with the Obama administration's decision to try Khalid Sheik Mohammed in a civilian court rather than a military court, according to a new national poll.

But six in 10 people questioned in a CNN/Opinion Research Corporation survey released Monday say that the alleged mastermind of the 9/11 attacks should be tried in the United States, as the administration plans to do, rather than at a U.S. facility in another country.

The poll indicates that 64 percent believe Mohammed should be tried in military court, with 34 percent suggesting that he face trial in civilian court. Six in 10 people questioned say Mohammed should be tried stateside, with 37 percent calling for the trial to take place at a U.S. facility in another country.

"The decision to bring Khalid Sheikh Mohammed in front of a civilian court is universally unpopular - even a majority of Democrats and liberals say that he should be tried by military authorities," says CNN Polling Director Keating Holland. "Despite that, most Americans say that he will get a fair trial in the U.S."


Mohammed is one of five Guantanamo Bay detainees with alleged ties to the 9/11 attacks that will be tried in civilian court in New York.
"After eight years of delay, those allegedly responsible for the attacks of September 11 will finally face justice," U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder announced Friday.

Mohammed, Ramzi Bin al-Shibh, Walid bin Attash, Ali Abdul Aziz Ali and Mustafa Ahmed al-Hawsawi will all be transferred to the Southern District of New York - a few blocks from where the World Trade Center towers stood prior to the September 11, 2001 attacks.

What should happen if Mohammed is found guilty?

"Nearly eight in 10 favor the death penalty if that happens - including one in five who say they normally oppose the death penalty, but would support it in this case," adds Holland.

The CNN/Opinion Research Corporation poll was conducted November 13-15, with 1,014 adult Americans questioned by telephone. The survey's sampling error is plus or minus 3 percentage points for the overall sample.

Full results (pdf)

–CNN Deputy Political Director Paul Steinhauser contributed to this report

Filed under: CNN poll • Khalid Sheik Mohammed


anonymous   November 17th, 2009 2:42 am ET

We all know why obama wants it in nyc is so he can spend more of our tax money and weaken our dollar that much more this guys a joke I wish I would have never voted in the last election. We should just lower our flag and raise a white one now because this is not proper change I had in mind

RodBrombacher   November 16th, 2009 9:13 pm ET

Yes, I agree. Cheney should be tried as a war criminal, but in The Hague in the World Court.

And the 9/11 bastards SHOULD be tried in NYC, and they should be placed in Rikers Island on the weekends and hold them in the Toombs during the trial days...(It's a royal dump ....the rats are HUGE ,the roaches are massive and the food, if you can call it that, sucks).

Rod
Asheville

Roni   November 16th, 2009 9:06 pm ET

It's hard to understand the logic of a terrorist. These extremist want a platform, both military or highly publicized civilan trial will give them that...if American's stay focused on actually weakening their network and continue to support the War–we will be successful.

I don't think it is so much that WE are scare of potential failure in our judicial system, but that these individuals shouldn't be afforded these rights. They are war criminals in that, they declared War on the West and have an organized system of operatives dedicated to their mission of the destruction of the US and allies.

Bottom line in my opinion, this is a very dissapointing decision by the US Attorney General, Justice Department and the US President.

Thersites   November 16th, 2009 9:03 pm ET

I like the idea of the Courthouse we built in Cuba. Why would we want to bring terrorists into our country who could never get in otherwise? Besides that we may have our differences with Cuba, but at least we can agree on this (a good start IMO)!

Dimslie   November 16th, 2009 8:58 pm ET

Obama and his stooge Attorney General are fools. We're just lucky they aren't releasing the scum outright. If this brings about another act of terrorism the fool will be bowing to more than the Japanese Emporer.

jabstat   November 16th, 2009 8:57 pm ET

I'm a Dem, and voted for Obama, but that was a bonehead decision... Costly, dangerous, unnecessary. Try 'em all in military court.

Fontana Al   November 16th, 2009 8:55 pm ET

We hold some the most vicious criminals, War or not in our jail system
The Blind Shiek from the 1993 bombing was tried and convicted in America.Noriega,Carlos Lehder the Columbian Drug kingpin.Not to
downplay 911, but drugs kill way more people then any terrorist,and every Drug Kingpin that we have proof on we want them to
stand trail in America,and they have been known to blowup a few building and airplanes as well.Some of those prisoners in Gitmo may or may not be guilt at least they will have a day in court after 6 are 7 years. just sitting in jail.How many people have Bush killed in his unjust war in Iraq? Way more than 911 not to mention the innocent men ,woman and children,collateral damage I quest.

fovillian   November 16th, 2009 8:52 pm ET

We've ALREADY tried, and convicted, people of the same crimes in U.S. court . . . under the last "president".

Blaq Ops   November 16th, 2009 8:46 pm ET

The questions isn't civilian court or military tribunal, the issue is why in the God's name are we bringing them so close to hallowed ground to be tried. In this day and age, we can have them tried via satellite, by a jury of civilian New Yorkers. They don't need to, nor should they be given the luxury of actually being present. The burden on our local resources will be tremendous, and can be better spent. We're talking about scaling back Medicare and Education so these cowards could get a fair day in court? Are you kidding me??? Keep them in Guantanamo and don't spend a dime transporting them to the mainland. Especially NOT NY......

Kelly, Boston   November 16th, 2009 8:45 pm ET

I think that this animal should be tried in a New York federal court with New York jurors. I lived in New York for eleven years, having moved there six years before the attack. I understand that it was an attack on America–But it was primarily an attack on New York and its citizens, and the citizens of the surrounding areas (e.g., New Jersey, Connecticut). I lived with 1/2 mile of the Trade Center site, and smelled the destruction every day for months. Justice for this human filth should be served by the people of New York, not by military bureaucrats. The people of New York should have the right to put this stinking pile to death.

Marc from San Diego   November 16th, 2009 8:43 pm ET

This is such a non-issue. The bottom line is that they are going to be tried, convicted, and justice will be served. Who cares where they are tried, this is another Republican non-issue hissy fit. Stop wasting our time and get back to work.

Limbaugh is a liberal   November 16th, 2009 8:41 pm ET

The biggest act of DOMESTIC terrorism in the United States was perpetrated by Timothy McVeigh, a war hero, registered republican and NRA member. He blew up a federal building in Oklahoma City, killing hundreds of innocent people, including a daycare center with a hundred children! He was arrested, tried in a CIVILIAN court, sentenced to death despite RIGHT-WING attempts to turn the trial into a political circus against the Clinton administration, and pretty speedily (by American standards) executed. Justice has been served!

Fitz in Texas   November 16th, 2009 8:40 pm ET

This is exactly what Obama wants. He'll be putting American citizens and this country on trail as well. Obama once again slaps this country and the American in the face.

mjm   November 16th, 2009 8:40 pm ET

"He was charged on February 11, 2008, with war crimes and murder by a U.S. military commission and faces the death penalty if convicted."

There you have it. He was charged in a military commission, he needs to be tried by military commission.

Military commissions are designed to give these non-citizens their day in court, protect their rights and US intelligence at the same time.

Pretty straight forward even if you are a mentally challenged Liberal/Democrat......like Obama and his AG.

Houff   November 16th, 2009 8:36 pm ET

If CNN is tending right (and I am not at all sure that is the case), it is likely due to poor ratings, while Fox (which obviously does tend right– as balance against nearly every other network on broadcast and cable tv) is cleaning its competition's clock in the ratings.

Peter E   November 16th, 2009 8:35 pm ET

The Bush administration tried and convicted dozens of Al Quaida in civilian courts, and nobody had a problem with that! The Bush administration also released, without trial over four hundred other suspected Al Quaida who have since then joined terrorist organizations back in theri countries. Once again, nobody said a word. Why is it okay for Bush Jr. to make these decisions, but it is considered traitorous if Obama does EXACTLY THE SAME THING?

Charlie   November 16th, 2009 8:34 pm ET

Question for people why should we let terrorists hide behind our constitution in civilian court when they cowardly murdered 3000 innocent civilians. Another reason we should not bring it to a civilian court think of the evidence obtained in some remote mountain in Afghanistan there were no search warrants or all of the great men and woman in the CIA and FBI doing undercover work to help protect us. If we follow the constitution in a civilian court then all of that can not be used and these terrorists will be let free.

Bren   November 16th, 2009 8:34 pm ET

Republicans won't even have to campaign for the 2012 elections--they can just sit back, watch, laugh---and let Obama, Pelosi, and Reid destroy the chances of almost every Democratic candidate in 2010--and the Democratic Party as well.

It is almost like they want to get clobbered in 2010!!!

Bpin   November 16th, 2009 8:33 pm ET

Question no one has asked. What if he wins in a US court? It could happen very easily. Almost 30% of court cases won in the US are won due to technicality. There are plenty of chances for that in this case. I would not want to be in NY the day something like this happened. He has no business being tried here for that very reason. Try him in military court for his war crimes.

Limbaugh is a liberal   November 16th, 2009 8:32 pm ET

Well, that's still an improvement over the previous administration who didn't want to try any of these evil doers even in a military court! I think justice is making headway.

Bev   November 16th, 2009 8:30 pm ET

Tax payers are going to be stuck paying for every red cent of this Obama circus!!!

PLUS..........He will be placing New York and New York citizens at risk for another terrorist attack.

PLUS.........He is opening very sore wounds for the emergency responders and victims' families--–by bringing the trials to New York.

PLUS.........They were TERRORISTS, not criminals. Therefore, they should stand trial in our military courts, NOT civil court.

PLUS.........There is a chance, that these terrorists could go free.

Can you imagine those selected for jury duty??? You couldn't pay me to do it.

JJoseph   November 16th, 2009 8:26 pm ET

Why don't any of you individuals commenting about how it's taken 8 years to get these criminals to justice ask why it's taken the Obama administration almost a year just to decide where they intend to conduct the trials?

MARK   November 16th, 2009 8:26 pm ET

Obama has screwed up AGAIN. This trial needs to be in a military court. End of discussion.

A concerned U. S Citizen   November 16th, 2009 8:23 pm ET

Some one who is not a U. S citizen and who killed innocent U. S citizens in the World Trade Center should not be given the privileges of a U. S citizen in a trial for the crimes committed. The famous legal doctrine is that one who seeks equity must come with clean hands. One who has hands tainted with the blood of innocent U. S citizens is not coming with clean hands and is not entitled for any leniency in any sort of justice system whether it is civil or military.

e cruz   November 16th, 2009 8:21 pm ET

Let me save the country alot of money.
We are in the middle of a budget deficit.
I will personally try, convict, and execute these terrorist "free of charge".
They do not deserve a trial in a court, in front of a Judge, and in the presence of a jury.

They cannot be rehabilitated nor reformed.
Their intent was to kill.

My intent is retribution.
They needed to be extinguished.

A concerned U. S Citizen   November 16th, 2009 8:21 pm ET

Some one who is not a U. S citizen and who killed innocent U. S citizens in the World Trade Center should no be given the privileges of a U. S citizen in a trial for the crimes committed. The famous legal doctrine is that one who seeks equity must come with clean hands. One who has hands tainted with the blood of innocent U. S citizens is not coming with clean hands and is not entitled for any leniency in any sort of justice system whether it is civil or military.

Uncle Sam   November 16th, 2009 8:18 pm ET

Set up a picnic table at Ground Zero, try the terrorists, convict them (since they've already confessed), and let the family members of those murdered tear them to pieces – slowly. OR... fly a loaded Predator Drone very slowly toward them and make them watch their ticket to Hell coming at them.

NoName   November 16th, 2009 8:17 pm ET

O listens and learns, but not to what benefits the Constitutional USA. He serves another cause.

abcdefg   November 16th, 2009 8:12 pm ET

The crime occurred on a military base and perpetrated by a military officer. Let the military follow its procedures!

Hey Vic of New York.

, Put down the dope and step away.
And next time PLEASE don't vote

GI Joe   November 16th, 2009 8:06 pm ET

Bush and Cheney should be tried in military tribunal – open to tv cameras.

Mike in Tacoma   November 16th, 2009 8:04 pm ET

Who cares about what the polls say? This country was founded on law! We should relish in the fact that we are taking the high road in conducting a criminal trail! Which should have been done years ago... If they were found guilty in a military trail, it would STILL be a mark on the fabric of our great country...

Mark   November 16th, 2009 8:04 pm ET

So Bush was the "go it alone" president?
Americans dislike bailouts, government health care and KSM trial. When will the teflon wear off this president?

GI Joe   November 16th, 2009 8:03 pm ET

YOU LIE!!!

I saw the poll = CNN Lies to stir up divisiveness

Joan   November 16th, 2009 8:03 pm ET

Since most of the media coverage has been of Republicans who are against this like Guiliani, McCain and others who are politically speaking, it is no wonder the public thinks it is a bad idea. How about more interviews with those who have confidence in the American justice and law enforcement agencies like Mayor Bloombeg, Peter Bergen and others who are not trying to use this as a political issue. This is just another fear and smear tactic by the Republicans and the media is falling for it again. If the Republicans think the tribunals are so great, why didn't they try and convict these guys years ago by their tribunals?

Ren from Baltimore   November 16th, 2009 7:51 pm ET

Let us ask: Did the pollsters have any idea whether or not the respondents knew much about civil vs military courts?

The military court system is not set up for this type of case, not at all. Hence the Nuremberg trials, our most blatant example.

Independant Vet   November 16th, 2009 7:49 pm ET

What a slap in the face. No respect for the familys that lost loved ones. Just had to keep there emotions runing , an memories at high risk . Of seeing another eposide brought back .

By now does not any of his adminstration belive in these terrorist . You can place all bets they will being there utmost to carry off another head liner.

Yet , we the people , know this administration is learning on the job. training.

So why don't they take it to DC. an let them catch all the fall out. Better yet house them there. .

God bless the U S A >

Crazy ass human being   November 16th, 2009 7:49 pm ET

This terrorist is not bound by our constitution – -hs deserves no rights.
Give him the public execution he deserves, just as we watched the executions of our fellow Americans. No lethal injection- -THE NOOSE.
Put it on pay per view and you could probably pay for the heathcare bill!

Marc   November 16th, 2009 7:45 pm ET

If our Military Tribunals are not capable of trying these people then how can they try our soldiers?

Enough said Obama. ANOTHER error in judgement.

william mccoy   November 16th, 2009 7:44 pm ET

why should we try them????? just shoot them. it is going to be a show and a waste of money.

Suzanne   November 16th, 2009 7:37 pm ET

Why does Obama want to discredit our military court system?
If he does not believe it is fair and impartial then he should shut the military courts down.
If our military court system is such an embarrassment to Obama then why try our good soldiers in such an awful system?
Once again Obama demonstrates his poor judgment and shows that he worries about the opinion of other countries more than protecting America.
Obama: "You already won the peace prize, now stop campaigning and start governing. It takes strength and judgment to lead. Stop worrying about being a celebrity and do the job we elected you to do". It almost makes we wish for George W. again. (Not really).

Zonk3907840   November 16th, 2009 7:37 pm ET

How much do they think it will cost taxpayers?

How long has the longest military tribunal ever taken?
How long would a military tribunal have cost compared to a civilian trial?

VERY WELL SAID!!!.....To much WASTE of OUR $$$$$$$$$$$$

Jay B   November 16th, 2009 7:35 pm ET

This is a blatantly political move which has nothing to do with America's best interests. Giving terrorists constitutional rights is an affront to our constitution. Much of the evidence will be excluded from trial because they were treated as combatants, not American citizens with things such as Miranda rights.Undcoubtedly the ACLU and some democrat appointed federal judges will see that some of the terrorists will be freed.

The real point of this charade is to allow allow the left and the government approved media to put the Bush administration on trial. So what if national security interests are compromised or a few terrorists are released, right? Last years election was a repudiation of the Bush administration, not an endorsement of a leftist revolution. Thank goodness you dems know how to make Republicans appealing. Lord knows we couldn't do it without you.

JENNIFER   November 16th, 2009 7:29 pm ET

Obama said in 2006, that KSM should go before a full military court. What happened to that? KSM committed an act of war while he lived in another country. He does not deserve the same rights as an American citizen. He belongs in a military trial.

BedfordRick   November 16th, 2009 7:24 pm ET

Thanks only to this forum, let me add my vote. I'm a Democrat, but I don't think I'm extremely liberal. I would have voted for a military trial, but I also have always believed we should have treated these prisoners with the Geneva Convention as our basis. Because I don't think we did, I'm terrified that these terrorists could get off scott free, simply because we treated them as if they had no rights. I'm especially concerned with a civilian court; I think there are just too many mistakes that the defense could take advantage of. Imagine what would happen if all our evidence were thrown out due to some legal technicality. You think O.J.'s trial was bad? What about Cullen Davis' trials?

dmo   November 16th, 2009 7:23 pm ET

I say if convicted they should release them into the federal prison system and let the vigilante justice take care of em....

xxception   November 16th, 2009 7:21 pm ET

We are going back to treating this like a criminal matter while our opponent is still treating it like a war. This smacks of a return to the Clinton years and the "wall" between agencies. NOT a good idea. That's without mentioning the potential treasure trove of intelligence we are handing Al Quaeda on a silver platter when all of our methods and intelligence is in open court. Real smart move. (sarcasm fully intended)

Willy Brown   November 16th, 2009 7:13 pm ET

This whole bring it to the states and hold court is nothing more than putting Bush on trial. Obummer wants live TV 24/7 on this. Holder is a doof for pulling this but he did get Bill Clinton to pardon a major tax evader

mjm   November 16th, 2009 7:13 pm ET

Would it be so hard for you liberals and Democrats to at least look up the difference between Military and Civilian courts?

How about the Military Commissions Act of 2006? You know the law that gives these non-citizens their day in court? Could you look that up at least?

I mean it's the same crap post after post.

You have to be a US citizen (or at least in the country legally) in order for the Constitution to apply.

fred gill   November 16th, 2009 7:10 pm ET

The main purpose of this, as one poster said is to embarass Obama's predecessor, and better, GWB. Now Obama can pose as the champion if the "rule of law" to his buddies in the Internationale. The fix is in on these sham trials and so they will go smoothly enough. But they set a horrible example which will come back to haunt us.

terry,va   November 16th, 2009 7:09 pm ET

Why take the risk and expense to our country? Maybe they will actually get to the White House the next time. God bless those that took down the plane in PA.

Chris   November 16th, 2009 7:03 pm ET

"Second... All of a sudden America should stop following the very Constitution and Laws these Wing-Nuts say they are for, just because this disturbed character happens to be a Muslim? What hypocrisy!"

Actually, Obama is the first president to make the decision that someone in their position deserves a civilian trial. Apparently Franklin Roosevelt was some sort of wing-nut because he came to the same conclusion.

This decision is purely political. It's misguided, and will end up hurting the administration. They need to pull the plug on this before it's too late. Although I'm betting they don't realize that. The moment he steps into court and challenges any evidence on the grounds that he wasn't mirandized... people are going to be seriously disillusioned. At that point, you either railroad him through, leaving the impression of a lack of justice, or you end up acquitting him, because none of your evidence is admissible.

It's lose/lose.

Adam   November 16th, 2009 7:00 pm ET

Yes we can
Yes we can
Yes we can

sure did lol.

I say death by firing squad in ANOTHER county
or feed them to great white sharks.I wouldn't give
them the freedom to step one foot on American soil.
this county has turned into a bunch of pussies afraid to do things the right way.

Peter s   November 16th, 2009 6:59 pm ET

It doesn't matter whether they will be tried in civilian or military courts Why can't these goons just be hanged ?

J.D. Wells   November 16th, 2009 6:59 pm ET

Ultimate Solution.....Put these guys on a warship out in the middle of the
Atlantic Ocean. Hold the trial on a Navy warship that can be easily modified to become a courtroom. If they are war criminals, they should be tried in a military court. If found guilty....walk the PLANK! Problem solved.

Robin in Tampa, FL   November 16th, 2009 6:58 pm ET

I have mixed feelings about the administration's approach, firstly I applaud them for finally bringing these criminals to trial, however not everyone is being tried the same way ... the people they know they can easily convict (KSM and a few others) they get trials, the people who are a little harder to convict they get military tribunals, and the people who they can't convict they are basically keeping locked away indefinitely without any trial.

This basically means these will be show trials, if the government feels it cant get a conviction they will not get a trial. Essentially this is two steps forward and one step back, but maybe this is the best progress we can achieve for now.

TK   November 16th, 2009 6:57 pm ET

Try him on a pig farm. All his jailers should be menstrating women.

sandy   November 16th, 2009 6:49 pm ET

I think 2/3's agree because they don't understand what's going on. Doesn't say much for society does it?

Really?!   November 16th, 2009 6:48 pm ET

So what happens if there's a mis-trial? What happens if a jury finds him not guilty? Does he go free and laugh all the way back to his country? What if we find him guilty and execute him? Will the muslims like us more since we executed one of their own, but in a more diplomatic way? This is what happens when you put liberals in charge.

1959   November 16th, 2009 6:48 pm ET

Let them be tried by the military. We are not the only country affected by their devastation.

bawana   November 16th, 2009 6:48 pm ET

try him in new york let the facts come out in the case people need to know and have the right to know what happened

Jeremy   November 16th, 2009 6:47 pm ET

One thing Obama and Holder fail to realize is that if Mohammed is tried in New York, it will most likely be a circus trial, with the Bush administration on trial for improper interrogation techniques. The trial focus will shift from this horrible man who should be put to death for killing over 3,000 civilians to the administration who interrogated him in how the bleeding-heart liberals call "cruel and unusual". People fail to realize that the people that we interrogated were some of the most notorious terrorists on this planet that we needed information from. Mohammed needs to be tried in military court so the trial will focus on Mohammed instead of the prior administration.

Allen from Illinois   November 16th, 2009 6:47 pm ET

Try these terrorists in a civilian court where they will be seen as criminals, rather than soldiers! If we try them in a military court, we legitimize their claim to be "soldiers," the Muslim world will see them as Holy Warriors rather than criminals! We must reinforce the truth that they are actually criminals, and not soldiers, by trying them in civilian court. Let our justice system do what it is designed to do! And don't forget, the Military Justice System is based on the Constitution; it has the same safeguards a civilian court!

Rob   November 16th, 2009 6:41 pm ET

Hopefully the trial will be fair regardless of whether it is a military court or a civilian court, but having full blown insurgents in the New York penal system might end up a recipe for disaster. Prisons are HUGE recruitment sites for these guys and the end result may be terrorists with American passports.

Donnatella   November 16th, 2009 6:41 pm ET

Why didn't Bush and Cheney take care of this, these scumbags have been in jail for 8 years, why now are we prosecuting them, these men should have been put in front of a firing squad years ago. I don't care how its done or who prosecutes them. You republicans are scared of your own shadows, all you do is complain about whatever this administration does, a bunch of monday morning quarterbacks, hiding behind your own fear. Lets just do it.

German,Irish American   November 16th, 2009 6:40 pm ET

Be honest CNN, Democrats, and Independents who all voted for Obama, do you think this would be happening if McCain/Palin were in office?

ggb   November 16th, 2009 6:40 pm ET

Once we bring these "terrorists" to US soil, they can no longer be tried as "enemy combatants" and the facts and chain of evedince changes. If Congress commissioned the military to do this, why is Obama once again making his own laws? Does he not remember KSM was tried once in NYC and deported to do more harm? Does he really think NYC will be safe? Why could Obama say "he would win the war" and now we are no longer at war cause we have no enemy cpombatants?The man has no clue and this whole thing is a travesty. No wonder the military has low moral with a jokester as Commander in Chief!
I am tired of the Obama way and not the law.

SOL   November 16th, 2009 6:30 pm ET

Obama and Holder are fools to think that having a civilian court for this murderer is the correct direction.

Gerry   November 16th, 2009 6:25 pm ET

After the trial is over then the jury, judge and others will need protection for the rest of there lives at a cost of millions. They will have the right of American citizens and use this to tie up the courts for many years at the cost of 10s of millions of dollars. Try them in gitmo and then execute them with one bullit 53 cents each total cost $115.01. Now what so smart about this dicision. Senator Jack Reed said even if the were to win we still would not release them and this is our fair legal system.

canadian pov   November 16th, 2009 6:23 pm ET

If you are so afraid of trying them in NYC, they win. The MO of any act of terror is to well, to terrorize. Bush/Cheney and the current leaders of the GOP use fear to try to control..... oh, wait a minute....

Copernicus In Brasil   November 16th, 2009 6:22 pm ET

1984 says: 'Cheney should be right next to him as a war criminal'
++++++++
My Friend, I am sure that you are an Ivy League Law Review Graduate, but you are alll over the place. . . .you need to call your buddy Eric H older and Barak Hussein Obama and get on the same page and pick which court you want.. . . .
A War Criminal in Civil Court. . that is hilarious!

Hendrik   November 16th, 2009 6:20 pm ET

We are very interesting. We tout our justice system but then shun it in favor of a military system since it will be "easier" to convict someone? Do we realize how hypocritical we are? We don't want justice; we want a trial for these "guilty scoundrels" that gets the result we want.
Do not get me wrong; I detest the scum who organized the attack on our country and its people but can we at least pretend that we want justice?

raj   November 16th, 2009 6:19 pm ET

I am shocked at the decision.I wuld like Feds, NY City govt and where ever these guys are going to be put to capture the costs associated with it. This is to show the world what ? We are already a symbol of freedom and fairness & dont need to prove it to anyone.What a waste of public money and time. Sometimes I wonder if this administration is guided by folks who are not their best friend or Mr Obama has only one term in mind ?

GodsCountry   November 16th, 2009 6:16 pm ET

The trouble is ACQUITTAL.
We all know it's possible, but hold the thought behind bars of DENIAL.
If they get New York lawyers, if they are acquitted, BHO must pay the price justice demands and be IMPEACHED for treasonous acts.

single mom   November 16th, 2009 6:11 pm ET

Seems to me that you put them where you want people to attack to ensure the 'defendants' can become martyrs.

Haven't the people of NYC been through enough? How about trying them in Chicago? Their lawyers will probably ask for a 'change in venue' as NYC will be seen as bias and they won't be able to get enough people on the jury who weren't affected by the attacks in the first place.

I liked the suggestion of putting them in general population, though.

Priscilla   November 16th, 2009 6:09 pm ET

Those oppose, mostly Republicans....what else is new?

Republican opposition to Preisent Obama has reached a point of RIDICULOUSLY FUNNY! He should announce the number of times he uses the boys room per day....YA THINK THEY WOULD SAY NO TO THAT! Sorry Mr. President, too much use of the men's room!!!!!!

D.   November 16th, 2009 6:07 pm ET

Americans with good sense of honesty and justice want a militant terrorist to be tried when its world is and where he belongs, namely in "military court."
However, the will of Americans and the current administration's will are sometimes at opposing positions due to "so called liberals" (those that have nothing to do with personal liberties) being in charge!!!!
No change: the people wanting one thing and the administration doing the opposite– G.W. Bush's third term!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rueben   November 16th, 2009 6:06 pm ET

Another idiotic move by the Obama Administration.

Gonzo in Houston   November 16th, 2009 6:03 pm ET

I don't know who will be the lead prosecutor, but I hope he's got an absolutely air-tight case! And who will defend this guy, I wonder? The OJ team? Johnnie Cochran has passed but Barry Scheck is still active.

Of course, if KSM somehow beats the rap in court, he could be released as a free man - right there on the courthouse steps in downtown NYC. With a few thousand citizens waiting and not a cop to be seen!

1984   November 16th, 2009 5:52 pm ET

Cheney should be right next to him as a war criminal.

gee   November 16th, 2009 5:41 pm ET

If the DEM wants to win, if CNN wants more viewers, they should stop the OBAMA PAMPERING. I and most of my friends were / are DEMS. They swiched to REPUB. or IND. because they no sign of CHANGE ON THE OBAMA ADMINISTRATION.

TRANSPARENCY? NO LOBBYISTS? FREEDOM OF PRESS? FREEDOM OF SPEECH? CHANGE? HOPE? PROMISES? JOB CREATION?

We see a clueless guy in the WH; we see a guy in empty suit.
We are tired of motivated rhetoric yet useless speeches.

It costs him nothing to deliver a great speech. Yet it costs us a lot to pay for that so-called great speech !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

victim of democrat hypocrisy   November 16th, 2009 5:40 pm ET

And now watch as the dems in power review the polls and waffle about trying them in civvy courts.

Why are these terrorists allowed to walk the earth??? You know, in WWII when our troops caught sabateurs or non-uniformed combattants, it was OK to execute them after gleaning any intelligence from them.

Eddie   November 16th, 2009 5:39 pm ET

I would like some reporter to ask someone who supports KSM being tried in NYC the following questions:

How long do they think the civiian trial will take? 5 months? 2 to 3 years?

How much do they think it will cost taxpayers?

How long has the longest military tribunal ever taken?
How long would a military tribunal have cost compared to a civilian trial?

Vic of New York   November 16th, 2009 5:39 pm ET

First... I don't understand this... The same Right-Wing nuts who want to pug it out with every nation that disagrees with us – don't have the brass tacks to try a "terrorist" on our soil? Typical. That's like the draft dodging DICK Cheney saying the President is exposing America to "terrorism" while hiding at some "undisclosed" location!

Second... All of a sudden America should stop following the very Constitution and Laws these Wing-Nuts say they are for, just because this disturbed character happens to be a Muslim? What hypocrisy!

The crime occurred on a military base and perpetrated by a military officer. Let the military follow its procedures!

Beverly in NC   November 16th, 2009 5:38 pm ET

I support President Obama's decision completely. This terrorist was one of the man planners of 9/11 and he committed his crime in New York City. The terrorists who attacked the WTC in 1993 were tired in our normal courts and sit safely confined in our prison system

By processing the remaing detainees left at Gitmo, we can empty the place and close it. President Obama is taking exactly the right approach to acheive justice and get Gitmo closed for good.

Republicans whine and try to make Americans fear everything. They have no solutions to offer and could handle a single crisis President Obama is dealing with if their lives depended on it. Those who can't do anything – just complain about the intelligent people making decisions and working hard to restore our country.

What have Republicans done this entire year? NOTHING. They are just a hate and fear group who will be wiped out of Congress in 2010. Their obstructionism and negativity has backfired on them.

Obama = Worst Dictatorial president ever.   November 16th, 2009 5:37 pm ET

Only a Marxist Comrade would think our constitution, our bill of rights, and our judicial system should be extended to a terrorist who's attack killed more people than Pearl Harbor.

Dean   November 16th, 2009 5:37 pm ET

And I used to believe Bush was stupid. Obama's decisions make Bush look like Einstein.

Al Holz   November 16th, 2009 5:36 pm ET

It's about time we as American took our heads out of the sand and realize that although the attack on the World Trade Center Towers on 9/11 happened in America it was trully an attack against the world! Have we forgotten that almost evry nation in the world was represented in the two towers. How can we exclude the rest of the world from thier opertunity to achieve justice for thier respective countries? A Military trial with Military represenitives from each of the counties that were represented in the World Trade Center Towers on the Jury is the only way to proceed. It should be held in non-US court, like in Russia or Isreal. Or a non – radical / zelet muslim nation. Think about it!

STU-PID   November 16th, 2009 5:34 pm ET

Fox and Glenn Beck know that our constitution does not apply all the time.

John, Brooklyn, NY   November 16th, 2009 5:30 pm ET

The irrational right doesn't get it. The Bush Administration effectively argued that these people NOT be defined as military combatants so that they wouldn't be given rights under the Geneva Convention. Trying these people under the criminal system is not only consistent with precedent (e.g. 90's terrorists) its also consistent with the Bush Administration's policy as well.

Gee. Amazing how remarkably silent Dick Cheney is on this one.

STU-PID   November 16th, 2009 5:29 pm ET

Wasn't Timothy McVeigh a terrorist?

Randolph Carter, I'm no expert but.....   November 16th, 2009 5:27 pm ET

Come on, people, we lead the world in locking people up. What makes you think our justice system is going to drop the ball now? Have a nice day!

C Spurgeon   November 16th, 2009 5:27 pm ET

I think maybe we have too many polls. The media is beginning to sound a little wacko.

Gary   November 16th, 2009 5:27 pm ET

Of course we do! We want that bastard in Gitmo facing a military court then executed. The idea of bringing him to NYC is dumb. We were hoping for change but what we got was a dumb President. Can we impeach him?

Deuce   November 16th, 2009 5:26 pm ET

So Iran's first lady. Does the Obama dance. Looking for Democracy through Hypocracy...

Kathy   November 16th, 2009 5:22 pm ET

What is Obama and the White House thinking? Just ask the relatives and friends of those murdered on 9/11 what they think. I believe that Obama should listen to them and what they think. Will he then change his mind, or just continue to be focused on his own self.

George W. Bush = Worst President Ever   November 16th, 2009 5:20 pm ET

Only a wingnut would think our constitution, our bill of rights, and our judicial system will not work.

They call me "tater salad"   November 16th, 2009 5:20 pm ET

I guess when CNN has nothing relevant to report on, they conduct a bazillion and one, polls to try to sway public opinion to the right! Welcome to the new Fox- lite! Not that great tasting, but, quite filling!!

Sgt. USMC   November 16th, 2009 5:19 pm ET

Justice will be served America... suck it up and let the courts do their jobs. One thing is for certain, people will always have something to complain about. If this was such a security risk then why was it not taken care of years ago. President Obama is doing things that the bush crapministration couldn't do. Things are changing people, KEEP UP OR SHUT UP!!!

OBAMA 2012

Stu   November 16th, 2009 5:18 pm ET

Terrorism is not a typical "crime" suited to be tried in a normal civilian court. These psycopaths are not entitled to Constitutional protections, nor trial in a civilian court. What's worse, in our prisons they would have a captive audience of anti-social, anti-American common criminals who would be easily swayed to their cause. Wake up sheeple. This is war, plain and simple.

I am the Not-So-Great and Powerless Wizard of Rush   November 16th, 2009 5:18 pm ET

So the majority of Americans question the strength of our judicial institutions – We have a very fragile democracy.

Jeremy-Dallas-Tx   November 16th, 2009 5:15 pm ET

Oh Oh Oh cry babies! Why did you arrest them if you can't presecute them? Why prosecute them if you can't jail them? BTW, Bush (Republican president) invaded Iraq and admitted Iraq refugees into this country enmasse. How sure was he that some of them are not Al-qaida guys or future recruits? Have you ever changed tires at Tire centers? They man them especially here at Dallas where I live. A close chat with them is that they don't like what we did in Iraq. They are bitter.

andy   November 16th, 2009 5:15 pm ET

Just another example that Obama and his staff have no clue on how to run things. Run around playing politics, trying to please all the liberal idiots, and his only success comes from a teleprompter. America is in trouble.

JES   November 16th, 2009 5:12 pm ET

It's nothing but politics. You need to wake up and see you are painting a traget on the city of New York haven't they had enough.

We were attacked and the military should have the trials.

Jim   November 16th, 2009 5:11 pm ET

my take on this is:

if he is tried in a military court, we acknowledge that he is a soldier.
and he is, then, likely to be shot if convicted ... and will then be viewed as a martyr.

if he is tried in a civilian court, we acknowledge that he is a civilian who slaughtered many innocent people/women/children (if convicted) ... which the q'uran forbids. let him sit in jail for the rest of his life with bubba for his cell mate. so much for being viewed as a martyr.

Frank, Las Vegas   November 16th, 2009 5:11 pm ET

Why are there so many that don't have faith in our justice system? A system that has worked for over 200 years. It also seems like an awful lot of the GOP group, those who always wrap themselves in the flag, now don't have faith in our justice system. These people should stop their fear spreading tactics and come together over our justice system. Come on out, you don't have to be afraid., really.

George W. Bush = Worst President Ever   November 16th, 2009 5:10 pm ET

Americans need to have faith in our constitution and our judicial system. Even Rudy 'the flip flopper' thought he trials should be handled by civilian court a few years ago.

Susan, Macedon New York   November 16th, 2009 5:10 pm ET

Although I'm concerned about security for NYC, not to mention the media frenzy this is going to cause (God Help us if they televise the trial!!!), I think AG Holder made the right decision.

The US has been totally hypocritical about holding prisoners without trial for this long. We're supposed to be a country with a system of laws. Let the law work and let the US regain some of it's stature in the world.

Mark   November 16th, 2009 5:09 pm ET

Poll: Only a liberal no mind would think its a good idea to bring a terrorist to civilian court. Whats next the movie?

Ethan   November 16th, 2009 5:08 pm ET

This is about sending a signal to other terrorists out there that THEY. WILL. NEVER. WIN.

If we try them in the American judicial system we can take the moral high ground and show the world that we are not only the strongest nation in the world by military might, but we are the most fair and most humane.

Of course, the neocon GOP isn't interested in being fair or humane. I mean cmon, they started a $1 TRILLION war of choice in Iraq for no reason. So......... so who cares what they think?

Btw, I am a 4th generation New Yorker who saw the towers fall with my own eyes, not on TV, and I've wanted JUSTICE for 8 LONG YEARS. I want them tried in NYC –ASAP– just as I did on 9/12.

Nico   November 16th, 2009 5:08 pm ET

Good decision by Eric Holder. Yet another bungled mess inherited from the inept republicans.
We now have an administration that thinks.

Mary C., TX   November 16th, 2009 5:07 pm ET

Why shouldn't NY be allowed to try this person. It happened there and it's in their jurisdiction. If it happened in TX, I would expect it to be tried in TX. Then we could show how justice is served!

Marc   November 16th, 2009 5:03 pm ET

During (and after) WWII the US courts held trials against foreigners whom had tried to spread chaos and mayhem in US soil, with various degrees of success and failure in their attempts. They worked well for such purpose back then.
The world changed a lot since then and fortunately most of the laws changed as well (Civil Rights anyone?), but they did not changed that much that they cannot be used against foreigners bent on spread terror in the US.

Randolph Carter, I'm no expert but.....   November 16th, 2009 5:01 pm ET

We are at war. At war with terrorism. At war with an idea, a method. This works out well for the military-industrial complex because, by constantly redifining who and where the "terrorists" are, we can maintain a state of "war" indefinitely. Hey, it keeps the uppity liberals in check, because they wouldn't want to be seen as soft on terrorists, and it gives the poor and working class something to do. While Halliburton and Blackwater count their money (our tax $). Brilliant. Have a nice day!

Tram   November 16th, 2009 5:01 pm ET

Try them.
Find them guilty.
Hang 'em high.
Air it all on internation television.

Republican'ts are so YESTERDAY   November 16th, 2009 5:01 pm ET

Only anti-Americans don't believe in our legal system and our Constitution. If they are tried in a military court it elevates them from terrorists to military and they ARE NOT PART OF ANY COUNTRY'S MILITARY!

eyeforeye   November 16th, 2009 4:53 pm ET

He should have been given what he deserved long ago. Make the punishment fit the crime, boom.

Obama = WORST president EVER   November 16th, 2009 4:51 pm ET

Duh. Now somebody tell the Idiot-in-Chief.

Wilfredo   November 16th, 2009 4:50 pm ET

to which army do these "war" criminals belong?

Justice   November 16th, 2009 4:50 pm ET

I agree with George Will that Attorney General Holder did not make a bad choice on the trial.

The strength of our justice system has successfully prosecuted other cases involving terrorism, both domestic and international.

Scott   November 16th, 2009 4:50 pm ET

Why is everyone continuing to act based on fear? Ditch the fearmongers already.

Americans need to find some courage and take some pride in our judicial system. If we prove that we mean what we say – that our system of laws is reasonable, honest and fair – and that it can handle "the boogeyman" in court – then we really are what we claim to be . . . an shining, proud example to the world of integrity and reason..

Unfortunately, some cower and spread fearful stories for political gain – but what they're really doing is showing is a stunning lack of faith in the way this Country's system was designed. Believing in this country is more than wearing a flag lapel pin . . . don't be a coward.

Julie   November 16th, 2009 4:45 pm ET

So is this an indictment on our judicial system? That we are suppose to have the best justice system in the world, and innocent until proven guilty? Do we not believe in this concept from our founding fathers anymore?? We don't really support the idea of a "fair" trial. We only support the idea of our desired outcome.

Libertarian   November 16th, 2009 4:43 pm ET

Unless Congress had declared war against all these terrorists home countries, they cannot be tried for "war crimes". Pleeeease people. We are a nation of laws. These people committed MURDER in the State of NY. They should be tried for murder in the State of NY.

Unless you want every foreign gov't out there prosecuting American's in front of their military courts (which are secret) then we must follow our own laws as well as international law.

inofritzn   November 16th, 2009 4:39 pm ET

HE admitted the crime = give him the punishment he wanted in the first place. NO trial necessary . Obama needs to stop worrying about his image so much, it's not high school here. Do the right thing and move on.

TCM   November 16th, 2009 4:38 pm ET

CNN polls of steering misinformation are alive and well today, I see. First, the poll boneheads are saying that "most Americans...feel Palin's not qualified at be president.." yeah, all 1014 Americans were polled. And, all were Obama supporters...now, CNN's really going out on a limb and saying 2/3 of the public don't want the GITMO terrorists tried here...when the number's actually closer to 98%..if not 100%....
Come on CNN...this is a bunch of liberal crap you're spewing

M-AZ   November 16th, 2009 4:37 pm ET

I for one think that Mohammed and the other detainees should be tried in a civilian court room, because:

(1) Their crimes were committed against Everydat Civilians.
(2) Their crimes, no matter how heinous, are NOT war crimes...in
fact, we were not even at war when 9/11 happened.
(3) These men are not Military Soldiers or representatives of any
recognized government. They are in fact, rogues & thugs
who master-minded an attack against American Civilians.

This scenario is no different than what was decided for Timothy McVeigh and his accomplice (Tim McVeigh was by the way, a retired military soldier).

bill   November 16th, 2009 4:35 pm ET

One more downfall for King Obama..

P. S. One term president

ATL Guy   November 16th, 2009 4:30 pm ET

Maybe we should disband the Senate and Congress and let the President make decisions based on CNN and Fox News poll results. What a torrid mess that will be.

Richp   November 16th, 2009 4:29 pm ET

You must have polled all the lawyers and media types that are licking their chops at trying to get a piece of this action. Nobody sane wants them tried here, they were MILITARY and need to be treated by the MILITARY.
Now if you want to EXECUTE them here by hanging at the WTC which would be fitting, that would be fine by me.
I wonder what the democrats are going to try to pass while that DOG and PONY show is going on in NYC.

John   November 16th, 2009 4:28 pm ET

Can't understand all the fuss about where KSM is tried.

What difference does it make?

Jacque Bauer   November 16th, 2009 4:25 pm ET

9.9 out of ten intelligent Americans want KSM tried in a military tribunal. The loony left and political treasonists want a criminal process to put the Bush administration on trial. Disgusting.

Proud Member..Party of No   November 16th, 2009 4:23 pm ET

lolol......ooops......another boneheaded and WRONG decision by Obama. This guy can't do anything right. Is he actually trying to be the worst president ever because, if so, then he's right on track.

Mark Meyer   November 16th, 2009 4:19 pm ET

Don't try the KSM in NYC. Think of the security cost, the likelyhood of a terrorist attack.

I don't want some suicide bomber walking into a bus, subway or store in protest of the trial.

Try him in Washington, DC by the military. NYC has had enough!

Marc   November 16th, 2009 4:17 pm ET

"After eight years of DELAY, those allegedly responsible for the attacks of September 11 will finally face JUSTICE," U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder announced Friday.
Couldn't say any better! They are being held for so long and without the proper indictment under what reasons? If there's proofs that they were behind it then use those proofs! Try them and convict them!
It's not about lynch mobs, kangaroo trials or any other stuff like that. It's about JUSTICE, and it has been delayed for too many years!

Kevin Evansville, IN   November 16th, 2009 4:15 pm ET

To me is sounds more like "real court" vs "kangaroo court."

I don't see why there is a military court and civilian court, and not a single unified system. At the basic level, you have a person being charged with a crime. If he's guilty, or not, why would one branch of the justice system be any more capable than the other in determining the facts? And if there are potential differences in outcomes, isn't this a glaring flaw with the system itself?

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