President Obama’s plan to close the Guantanamo Bay detention center has gotten sharp criticism from Republicans and Democrats, with Congress refusing to approve the $80 million needed to close the center until there’s a plan for the nearly 250 prisoners.

As part of The Desert Sun’s regular question-and-answer session with the 45th Congressional candidates, we asked incumbent Rep. Mary Bono Mack and the Democratic challenger, Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet, their stance on closing Guantanamo.

Bono Mack, R-Palm Springs, has declined to participate in the series, telling the paper earlier this month that she was focused on her Congressional duties and didn’t have time to provide the requested 150 word responses at this time.

Pougnet provided the following answer:

“It is critical that America’s security remain a top priority as options are discussed at Guantanamo Bay. As a member of Congress, I will tirelessly protect America’s security. Terrorists must know that we will vigorously pursue and prosecute them. I believe in a strong national defense and aggressive efforts to protect our nation.

But I also believe in the rule of law, justice and due process. I stand for honor. Unfortunately, the Bush administration’s detainment of prisoners without due process circumvents our Constitution and tears the fabric of justice from which America is woven. The detainment and torture of prisoners, at Guantanamo and elsewhere, has become a rallying cry for international terrorist recruitment and harms our national security.

I will work with the president and members of Congress to bolster protections against terrorism while holding true to American principles of justice, honor and the rule of law.”

The Desert Sun’s “meet the candidates” series will continue regularly online at mydesert.com/45th, discussing various federal issues throughout the campaign season.
Voters will weigh in on the race in the 2010 election.