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Senator Simpson, Talking Sense on DA, DT

Former Senator Alan K. Simpson, a life-long Republican who represented Wyoming in the United States Senate, and chaired the Veterans Affairs Committee, writes in this morning's Washington Post that the time has come to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." Senator Simpson points out three reasons we should all support lifting the ban. "First, America's views on homosexuals serving openly in the military have changed dramatically." "Second, 24 nations, including 12 in Operation Enduring Freedom and nine in Operation Iraqi Freedom, permit open service." "Third, there are not enough troops to perform the required mission." "Since 1993," the Senator writes, "I have had the rich satisfaction of knowing and working with many openly gay and lesbian Americans, and I have come to realize that 'gay' is an artificial category when it comes to measuring a man or woman's on-the-job performance or commitment to shared goals. It says little about the person. Our differences and prejudices pale next to our historic challenge. Gen. Pace is entitled, like anyone, to his personal opinion, even if it is completely out of the mainstream of American thinking. But he should know better than to assert this opinion as the basis for policy of a military that represents and serves an entire nation. Let us end 'don't ask, don't tell.' This policy has become a serious detriment to the readiness of America's forces as they attempt to accomplish what is arguably the most challenging mission in our long and cherished history." Now that's compassionate conservatism. And Senator Simpson stays true to the traditional Republican ideals of limited government and a strong national defense. As he writes this morning, "Is there a 'straight' way to translate Arabic? Is there a 'gay' Farsi? My God, we'd better start talking sense before it is too late. We need every able-bodied, smart patriot to help us win this war." Thank you, Senator Simpson, for bringing a common-sense, conservative voice to the debate, and standing up for our men and women in uniform. Steve Ralls (Also check out The Post's editorial this morning, supporting repeal.) -----

03-14-07