May 5, 2011

Palm Center Statement on House Republican Interference With ‘Don’t Ask,Don’t Tell’ Repeal

Los Angeles – The following statement about House Republicans’ efforts to intervene in the “don’t ask, don’t tell” repeal process can be attributed to Palm Center Director Aaron Belkin:

“The full House Armed Services Committee is scheduled to mark up this year’s Defense Authorization bill on Wednesday. House Republicans oppose the repeal of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell,’ as well as the recent Navy statement allowing chaplains to determine what religious ceremonies they will or will not perform.

“The Navy’s position is prudent. It anticipates requests that chaplains may receive in states that have extended marriage to same-sex couples and leaves the judgment of what to do in the hands of chaplains.

“Republican opposition is not about doing what’s best for the military. It is the Navy’s, and not the House Republicans’, policy that shows deference to the religious beliefs of the clergy.”

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