News

Log Cabin Republicans Calls on U.S. House of Representatives to Pass Historic National Defense Authorization Act of 2011

Legislation Reverses the Failed 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' Policy

May 28, 2010

(Washington, DC) – R. Clarke Cooper, Executive Director of Log Cabin Republicans issued the following statement:

"Last night, the House of Representatives in a courageous, bipartisnan vote decided they are going to be on the right side of history in ending the failed 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy. Their vote, supported by Republican-appointed Secretary of Defense Robert Gates and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen, strengthens our nation's military readiness. Repeal of such a discriminatory policy ensures all qualified individuals can serve without consequence of their sexual orientation. Now is the time for every Representative, Republicans and Democrats to pass the National Defense Authorization Act of 2011."

The House of Representatives vote which passed the legislative repeal of the arcane 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy, included Republican Representatives Judy Biggert (IL), Anh 'Joseph' Cao (LA), Charles Djou (HI), Ron Paul (TX) and Ileana Ros Lehtinen (FL).

"Log Cabin Republicans will continue to lobby and encourage our Republican Members of Congress that allowing gays and lesbians to serve openly and honestly is a force multiplier for defending America at home and abroad," concluded Cooper.

According to a new CNN/Opinion Research Corporation poll conducted last week, 78% of Americans favor repealing the failed 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy, with additional polling showing that a majority of self-identified conservatives support the repeal.