Howard Metzenbaum: “I rise because I am somewhat disturbed that so much of this debate has revolved around female Members of this body, who…”

“I rise because I am somewhat disturbed that so much of this debate has revolved around female Members of this body, who have led the charge on this issue. But I rise because I believe it is an issue that belongs to the other 94 Members of this body, the male Members. I believe that what is involved here has to do with what the American people, and the world, for that matter, will perceive as to how the Senate treated the entire Tailhook incident. There are probably few incidents in the Navy's history more embarrassing than Tailhook. I can see the headlines tomorrow: 'U.S. Senate Confirms Admiral in Charge of Tailhook Investigation, and One Most Directly Involved, a Four-Star Admiral.' That is not the way it should be. That is not the message that should be sent. I think it is an embarrassment that we are being forced to take up this issue. The argument is made that this man is a fine admiral and he has done his job well. I do not question the fine work he has done in the U.S. Navy. I am sure he has been an excellent member of the naval forces. I have no quarrel with that at all. But we send a signal if 94 male Members of the U.S. Senate see fit to confirm him with four stars.”