Fall Gitmo Trials Could Present Campaign Landmine

If everything goes right, the trial of the five Guantanamo Bay detainees charged in connection with the 9/11 attacks could begin within days of their seventh anniversary—and just as the presidential campaign begins its most heated stretch, Politico reports. Such a development would usually be a gift to Republicans, but this year it could help—or devastate—either candidate.

“I don't think either side is going to dive into ads over Gitmo,” said one GOP strategist, though both sides have eagerly debated the recent Supreme Court decision on detainee rights. Barack Obama supports the decision, holding up the trials following the 1993 World Trade Center bombings as a strong example. John McCain says that reveals a “Sept. 10 mindset.” (More Guantanamo Bay stories.)