Skelton opposes repeal of 'Don't ask, don't tell'

[IndianaGreen]

These things happen because we vote for these homophobes simply because they have a "D" after their names. Haven't we learned our lesson yet?

Skelton opposes repeal of 'Don't ask, don't tell'

By Roxana Tiron - 01/15/10 02:30 PM ET

The leading House Democrat on military policy said Friday that he opposes repealing the law that bans openly gay people from serving in the military.

Seventeen years ago, Rep. Ike Skelton (D-Mo.) played a major role in crafting the controversial law known as "Don't ask, don't tell." When President Bill Clinton wanted to lift the ban preventing gay people from joining the military, Skelton opposed the move. The end result was a compromise under which gay service members would conceal their sexual orientation.

Now, after President Barack Obama pledged during his campaign and first year in office to repeal the law, Skelton finds himself on the opposite side once again.

"I am personally not for changing the law," he said during a C-SPAN "Newsmakers" interview that will air Sunday.

Because the military is engaged in two major conflicts, in Afghanistan and Iraq, changing the law would create "disruption" that can cause some "serious problems," Skelton said during the interview.

He said the full House Armed Services Committee won't hold a hearing on the repeal of the law. Rather, the Personnel subcommittee will hold the hearing at some point this year.

Skelton also said he would oppose efforts to repeal the law in Congress — setting the stage for a potentially intense debate within his own committee with Democrats who want to see the law repealed.

http://thehill.com/homenews/house/76427-skelton-opposes-repeal-of-dont-ask-dont-tell

[yourout]

1. Related to Red Skelton?

<http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GeUNIp4vH7I>

[tnlefty]

2. I saw part of that this morning, until I flipped the channel.

I did notice that when he was being pressed with questions, he seemed rather defensive and uncomfortable. I honestly couldn't watch much of it - barf inducing.

[Newsjock]

3. What a fierce advocate!

I'm practically drowning in fierceness.

[Bluenorthwest]

4. Fun Footnote! Rep Skelton has never served in the military

That is correct. Unlike millions of gay Americans Rep Ike Skelton never served in uniform, so it is very difficult to understand what experience he bases any opinion upon. His experience is all as a lawyer and a Congressperson, no other form of work at all, no service of any kind at all. This is a man who has never once done anything for his country that did not come with a six figure salary attached. On the other hand our military is filled with proud gay volunteers.