"I no longer can faithfully execute the office of director of the National Security Agency as ordered by the president."
In this statement, Sally Yates is asserting that she can no longer fulfill her duties as Director of the National Security Agency (NSA) in accordance with her oath to uphold the law, because an order given by the President was unlawful or contrary to the values and principles that guide her conduct. This quote signifies a principled stand for justice and adherence to the rule of law, even when it means going against authority.
"The order that was issued does violate the immigration laws and it's on its face discriminatory."
This quote indicates that Sally Yates is stating her opinion that an order or policy, presumably related to immigration, directly contradicts existing immigration laws. She also believes that this order appears to be biased or discriminatory from the outset because it targets a specific group without apparent justification or reason. In essence, she's suggesting that the policy is unlawful and unfair in its treatment of certain individuals.
"When the president acts in ways that are contrary to our nation's laws, our Constitution, and our values, we have a responsibility to say so. We have a responsibility to tell the truth."
The quote emphasizes the importance of upholding the rule of law, adherence to the U.S. Constitution, and preserving national values in leadership. Sally Yates is advocating for speaking out against unconstitutional or immoral actions by the president, even when it may be difficult, because truthfulness and adherence to core principles are essential components of a functioning democracy.
"The rule of law is a foundational principle in this country. That means the president can't just pick and choose which laws he follows."
The quote emphasizes that in the United States, the "rule of law" is fundamental, ensuring equality under legal regulations for all citizens, including the President. This implies that the President cannot arbitrarily disregard or selectively follow laws as they please; instead, they must adhere to the established rules and regulations like any other citizen.
"I am here today because I have been asked to help tell a story that needs to be told, and that is the story of the Rule of Law."
This quote by Sally Yates emphasizes the importance of upholding the Rule of Law, which is a principle where all persons, including those in power, are accountable and subject to the law. She suggests that her presence (in a given context) is linked to telling this vital story, highlighting the necessity of transparency, justice, and equality under the law.
At the risk of sounding really corny now, I'm a career prosecutor. I've been doing this for a very long time. And I believe in holding people responsible when they violate the law. But our sole responsibility is to seek justice. And sometimes that means a very lengthy sentence for people who are dangerous and from which society must be protected.
- Sally Yates
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