Paul has warning for released detainees

Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) late Tuesday said if the United States discovered any of the released Guantánamo Bay prisoners were planning a terrorist attack, “there would be a drone with their name on it.”

On Fox News’s “Your World with Neil Cavuto,” Paul was asked if he advocates tracking them down and killing them if they plot against the U.S. 

“I would say that there would be a drone with their name on it,” replied Paul, who has been critical of portions of President Obama’s drone program.

They shouldn’t have been released to begin with, Paul argued, but “if people plot to attack our country, they will be dealt with, and they will be dealt with harshly.”

{mosads}Five top Taliban prisoners were exchanged over the weekend for Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl, whom the Taliban had held captive for nearly five years. Paul is among many lawmakers who have expressed concern about the risk the freed detainees pose. 

Asked if he’d entertain prisoner swaps if he ever becomes president, Paul said, “I don’t think so. I can’t imagine a circumstance in which I would.”

Paul is considered a potential 2016 GOP presidential contender. 

Obama did not get a “great” swap, Paul said, and he doesn’t think it should have been executed regardless of whether the American is a Medal of Honor winner or a deserter. 

“So, no, I’m not too happy with the deal. I’m not too happy with the rule of law not being obeyed,” Paul said, referring to the administration’s failure to inform Congress at least 30 days before the release of the Taliban prisoners.

The administration initially justified that move because officials claimed Bergdahl’s life was in danger, and his health was deteriorating. The White House, however, apologized to members of Congress on Tuesday for the delayed communication.