Despite what most political pundits said at the time, Republican front runner Donald Trump has overcome the odds and is leading all other conservative candidates. While Trump might say he will "Make American Great Again," many believe it will not be possible, as reported by The Huffington Post on Feb. 27.
CIA speaks
One part of Trump's campaign rhetoric has included his questionable and controversial foreign policy. The billionaire real estate mogul has advocated for "bombing the oil fields" controlled by the Islamic State (ISIS), as well as targeting family's of suspected terrorists.
Trump also commented on the process of waterboarding, which he would encourage the use of even though it has been proven not to produce effectiveresults.
During an interview on Friday night's episode of "Real Time with Bill Maher" on HBO, the former head of the CIA and NSA had some strong words for the former host of "The Apprentice." Michael Hayden sat down with host Bill Maher and explained why the United States military would not be legally obligated to follow Trump's orders if he's elected president.
"If he were to order that once in government, the American armed forces would refuse to act," Hayden told Maher. "You are required not to follow an unlawful order that would be in violation of all the international laws of armed conflict," Hayden continued, noting that he would be "incredibly concerned" if Trump implemented the policies he has proposed on the campaign trail.
In Dec. 2014, the Senate released the bipartisan "Committee Study of the Central Intelligence Agency's Detention and Interrogation Program," detailing the torture program and other illegal activities allegedly used during the Bush administration between 2001 and 2006. Since that time, the use of torture has been frowned upon by even more conservative Americans, but hasn't stopped top Republicans running for office.
Primary status
While Trump's foreign policy ideas might be extreme to some, the other Republican candidates have offered similar ideas. Even with criticism coming from former government officials, Trump's poll numbers have only increased regardless of how outlandish his statements might be. Heading into Super Tuesday this Tuesday, Trump is leading all other GOP candidates, and if he has a strong night, is expected to all but lock up the nomination set for this July.
