| After a 17-year roller coaster of uncertainty, Republican antipathy, and valiant efforts of supporters, the Senate today did us proud. Its members overcame a filibuster and will shortly vote to repeal the injurious, unworkable Don't Ask, Don't Tell. Kudos to our two NJ senators who supported the repeal.
It was long overdue. Public opinion polls, the President, the Secretary of Defense, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs-of-Staff, members of the armed forces and even some Republicans were ready to move forward. Before the vote to limit debate, Senator Lieberman said, "Removing legalized discrimination is an American value." The vote was 63-33.
Having ended the filibuster, the Senate is expected to formally vote on DADT later today. The House already passed the bill earlier this week. For procedural reasons the repeal will not take effect until at least 60 days.
Senator McCain shamefully said, "today is a very sad day. This can cause men to lose their lives." Other unhappy Republicans suggested that the future of an arms treaty with Russia was endangered by Democratic efforts to repeal Don't Ask Don't Tell. Before the DADT cloture vote Republican Senators blocked the Dream Act that would create a path to citizenship for certain illegal immigrant students who came to the United States as children and completed two years of college or military service. After the vote Sen. Lautenberg said, "Senate Republicans have turned their back on promising students who are working against all odds to reach their full potential." Another key Senate bill to fund medical care for 911 First Responders is facing an uncertain fate. Republicans heap praise on these individuals but show little concern for their failing health. |
.gif)
