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George W. Bush Explains His Signing Statements, Among Other Things

Can you say "Decider"?

Calvin Trillin

January 11, 2007

They sent me a law against torture. I signed it, although it was quaint. I said, though, that I’m the decider Of if something’s torture or ain’t.

I’ll do what I want when I want to, Though Congress’s will may be foiled. I’ve always done just what I want to. You see, I’m a little bit spoiled.

The Congress wants mail left unopened, Except through a court. They were blunt. I signed that, but said in a statement We’ll open whatever we want.

I’ll do what I want when I want to, That’s deep down in my DNA. I’ve always done just what I want to. And Nanny Dick says it’s OK.

The citizens spoke in November. They said that my war is a flop. So what? I will order more troops there. I’m boss, and I’m not going to stop.

I’ll do what I want when I want to, It’s what I’ve done all my life long. I’ve always done just what I want to. It’s lucky I’ve never been wrong.

Calvin TrillinCalvin Trillin is The Nation’s “deadline poet.”


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