Inside the Democratic Debate
Advocate.com has an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at LGBT issues in Sunday's Democratic debate, including the unanimous position among all 2008 candidates that the time has come to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."
The Advocate's "spin room" interviews with the candidates produced more strong responses about lifting the ban:
Sen. Joseph Biden:
“I would just as president of the United States end it. I would issue an executive order saying there will be no discrimination whatsoever in the military and everybody will be held to the uniform military code—so that if two gay people engage in illicit activity on the base, they’re gone; just like if two married people engage on the base, they’re gone."
Gov. Bill Richardson:
“I would pass legislation to end it, but I would also say to my military commanders, ‘There is not going to be any discrimination against gays and lesbians the military.’”
David Bonior, campaign manager for the Edwards campaign:
“[Sen. Edwards] has made his position clear that he’s opposed to the policy. He believes that sexual orientation should not be a consideration for people who are willing to give their lives to serve the country and risk their lives—that should not happen. Actually, he came out maybe three months ago with his position on that policy. He will do whatever is necessary to get it [repealed] and quickly once he is in office.”
Sen. Mike Gravel, candidate:
“When I met with the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network, I said, 'I'll do an executive order,' and they said, 'Senator, you can't do that, it's a law.' I said, 'Well, you just watch me.' Let me tell you, I've learned one thing about military people, those stars can come off as easy as they go on when you're Commander in Chief."
Compared to the 1992 campaign, when the issue of gays in the military ignited a firestorm of controversy, the 2008 candidates have taken strong, bold and unequivocals stands in favor of open service.
Now the question remains: Will their Republican counterparts do the same tonight when they debate?
You can read The Advocate's full coverage online here.
- Steve RallsLabels: 2008, Hillary Clinton, in the news
-----06-05-07
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