Ron Paul rejects al-Awlaki killing, says it’s ‘sad’ Americans accept ‘assassinating’

Politicians across the political spectrum, including President Obama, on Friday hailed the killing of Yemeni-American radical cleric Anwar al-Awlaki as a victory for the United States and a blow to Al Qaeda. But Ron Paul took a different stance.

"I don't think that's a good way to deal with our problems," Paul, a Texas congressman and antiwar presidential candidate, said of the targeted killing during an interview with MSNBC. "Al-Awlaki was born here, he is an American citizen. He was never tried or charged for any crimes. No one knows if he killed anybody. We know he might have been associated with the underwear bomber. But, if the American people accept this blindly and casually that we now have an accepted practice of the president assassinating people who he thinks are bad guys, I think it's sad."

As for his feelings on Osama bin Laden, Paul said the circumstances were different.

Asked if al-Awlaki's death was a victory for President Obama, Paul replied, "Let's hope not."