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SLDN Statement on Mid-Term Election Results: New Leadership Provides New Opportunities

WASHINGTON, DC – Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN), a national, non-profit legal services, watchdog and policy organization dedicated to ending discrimination against and harassment of military personnel affected by "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and related forms of intolerance, released the following statement today regarding the results of the November 7th mid-term Congressional elections:

“We now know that every co-sponsor of legislation to repeal 'Don't Ask, Don’t Tell’ who sought re-election appears to have been successful, with just one outstanding race in Connecticut yet to be decided. And we also know this: Support for lifting the ban did not cause voters to reject any candidate. According to Gallup, nearly 4 out of 5 Americans support gays serving openly in the military. America is ready for change.

The new doors that have opened, however, do not necessarily translate into certain, or fast, victory. Much work remains to be done, to educate both new and returning lawmakers. Consensus on important issues comes through bi-partisan efforts and smart strategy that brings together both sides of the political aisle. SLDN is proud that 123 Members of Congress – both Republicans and Democrats – have co-sponsored the Military Readiness Enhancement Act, an amazing number for any bill’s first introduction. Tuesday’s vote provides a significant opportunity to bring new allies from both parties into that coalition.

The new leadership in the House of Representatives will provide new opportunities to educate our elected leaders about the importance of repealing the military’s ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ ban on lesbian, gay and bisexual military personnel. Legislation to repeal this unfair and un-American law will be re-introduced in the 110th Congress, and SLDN looks forward to working with the new leadership for its passage.

SLDN congratulates our allies who won election on Tuesday, and we look forward to building new bridges and working with new leaders in Congress to fight for the freedom to serve.”

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