Some might read this as a call for fiscal responsibility, but I was left with a different impression.
Other members of Congress have staunchly opposed the idea of transferring Guantanamo detainees to prisons inside the United States because they fear the non-existent terrorist special forces will invade their states, but Representative Lynn Jenkins (R-KS) appears to be fishing for a payday.
Congresswoman Jenkins is asking for a full accounting of expenses that will calm her constituents.
“This cost estimate on closing the detention center from the Congressional Budget Office will help members of Congress better evaluate the President’s plan and inform our constituents,” she said in written statement Wednesday. [...]
“These costs should include but not be limited to the increased security and law enforcement personnel, the economic loss due to voluntary move outs and the need for enhanced physical infrastructure around the city, county and region to assuage the residents’ fears and concerns,” she wrote.
I read this as Representative Jenkins saying she may not oppose the idea if it means she can bring home the bacon.
If that's what it takes then so be it, but let's be honest; this has nothing to do with economic losses that may not even be incurred. This is about economic opportunity for Big Government spending in Kansas.
It may not need to be said, but if local residents have grave "fears and concerns," Congressional Republicans at least partially responsible for that. They have done nothing to assuage their fears. They've only stoked them.
Various reports have indicated the government will spend up to $300 million each year to house Guantanamo detainees after they've been transferred to a prison inside the United States and there are at least some Republican members of Congress who like the sound of that.