Obama's legacy: despite promises, it's not good on Guantanamo
CBC Radio | Posted: January 13, 2016 12:55 PM | Last Updated: January 13, 2016
"For my final address to this chamber, I don't want to talk just about the next year. I want to focus on the next five years, 10 years and beyond." - President Obama in his state of the union address Tuesday night
It's been nearly eight years now since Barack Obama was first elected in an atmosphere of hope and change. And, though last night's state of the union address made clear that there's still plenty he wants to do before this fall's election, the legacy of the Obama years is also coming into view.
The military prison in Guantanamo Bay was on his mind last night, just as it has been for most of his presidency.
In fact, one of his very first acts in office in 2009 was signing an earlier executive order to close the controversial prison. Seven years later, Guantanamo, or course, remains open.
In fact, one of his very first acts in office in 2009 was signing an earlier executive order to close the controversial prison. Seven years later, Guantanamo, or course, remains open.
Despite strong words last night, many remain skeptical that President Obama will follow through on his latest promise. David Remes is a lawyer representing 16 of the 104 detainees still being held at Guantanamo. We reached him there awaiting meetings with clients later today.
One issue that's been a thorn in side of this president has been gun violence, and gun control – particularly since the Sandy Hook shooting in 2012. President Obama called for change then but it was only last week that he finally announced an executive order to toughen some existing gun control measures.
Coni Sanders has been waiting for action on gun control since her father Dave, a teacher, was killed in the Columbine High School shooting. She's now a forensic therapist who works with violent offenders. She joined us from Denver, Colorado.
And if there's a signature piece of legislation from the Obama presidency, it must be the one with his name on it: Obamacare, or the Affordable Care Act, as it's more formally known. President Obama said last night 18 million people have gained coverage.
Martin Wolske's son Eric was 23 when he was in a road accident. He credits Obamacare for Eric having health insurance at the time. Martin Wolske joined us from Champaign, Illinois.
Has President Obama delivered on what you expected? What do you want to see him accomplish in his last year in office?
This segment was produced by The Current's John Chipman and Karin Marley.
RELATED LINKS
♦ The president doesn't need Congress's permission to close Guantanamo
♦ Why Gitmo Will Never Close
♦ Gitmo's Fallen Czar
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♦ Obama vetoes Obamacare repeal bill
♦ Why Gitmo Will Never Close
♦ Gitmo's Fallen Czar
♦ Tearful Obama Outlines Steps to Curb Gun Deaths
♦ Obama vetoes Obamacare repeal bill