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Sen. Pat Roberts Threatens Filibuster Of Gitmo Closure

There have been reports that President Obama may take steps to try to close the Guantanamo Bay detention facility in Cuba. It houses people detained in connection to the U.S. war on terrorism.

Kansas Republican Sen. Pat Roberts is opposing any plan that would bring detainees on U.S. soil. During a stop in Topeka, he said he'll take to the floor of the Senate and filibuster any efforts to close Guantanamo Bay. 

"And if he tries it, I will shut down the Senate," said Roberts.

Roberts believes other senators would also help block any efforts to transfer detainees to the U.S. Republican Rep. Lynn Jenkins also opposes closing the facility. In a statement she said Guantanamo Bay is the best facility to house the detainees.

Around 150 detainees are currently held at the base.

As the Kansas News Service managing editor, I help our statewide team of reporters find the important issues and breaking news that impact people statewide. We refine our daily stories to illustrate the issues and events that affect the health, well-being and economic stability of the people of Kansas. Email me at skoranda@kcur.org.
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