John McCain intends to do everything he can to halt the repeal of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ even though 70% of active duty military support allowing gays to serve openly.
Officials told the Washington Post last month that the report, a survey of opinion among soldiers, other military personnel and their spouses, found an overwhelming majority either supporting or, at least, not opposing the reform. A majority said it would have no impact on morale.
The report is scheduled to be released later today, with Gates and the joint chiefs of staff, Admiral Mike Mullen, hosting a press conference at the Pentagon.
Defense Secretary Gates supports ending the ban on gays in the military.
“I would like to see the repeal of ‘Don’t ask, don’t tell,’ but I’m not sure what the prospects for that are,” Gates told a news conference in Australia, according to The Associated Press.
“Don’t ask, don’t tell,” the ban on openly gay members serving in the military, has been challenged by federal judges who question the constitutionality of the ban, but a full repeal in the courts could take years.
A legislative repeal, attached to the Defense Authorization Act, failed to generate enough support in the Senate shortly before the midterm elections.
