Political Quotes

“I am writing to urge the Senate to vote in support of the 2001 national Defense Authorization Act. Each element contained in the legislation that passed the Senate Armed Services Committee is essential to the maintenance of a strong, capable fighting force for our nation. Provisions in the bill will ensure that our soldiers have the pay they deserve and the equipment training and support they need to conduct their critical missions. In particular, I support the don't ask, don't tell repeal language that passed through the Senate Armed Services Committee earlier this year and is currently part of the pending legislation. The Pentagon is currently conducting a study in how to implement a policy of open service. Congressional repeal is vital for the Pentagon to implement their findings, whatever they may be. As I have said before, repeal strikes down the law that straightjackets military leaders' ability to craft a sensible and practical policy about open service. Most importantly, the current repeal language allows the Pentagon the time it may need to answer any questions about how to actually implement the change.”