Adam Smith (D. Wash) is the ranking member, and his remarks make it clear that he does not understand the difference between a criminal and an enemy combatant. They are in Guantanamo for good reason, perhaps confusing to Democrats but only by choice. There is nothing wrong with holding enemy combatants who we have been fighting in the field.
The Taliban is the enemy. The goal was to remove them from power in Afghanistan, and that has somehow morphed into a willingness to negotiate with some part of the Taliban, "we aren't sure which ones", in order to end the war in Afghanistan, not win it. Emptying Guantanamo Bay of the worst of the worst prisoners, like the Taliban Dream Team, make it much easier to deal with the less dangerous prisoner.
Chuckie is making his opening statement now.