Joint Chiefs Nominee: Congress Can and Should Reconsider "Don't Ask"

Over the past two days, Admiral Michael Mullen has been hitting all the rights notes on Capitol Hill. Yesterday, the Bush Administration's nominee to become the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff noted that without political and economic progress, “no amount of troops and no amount of time will make much of a difference” in the war in Iraq."

Today, Mullen indicated that he has no problems with Congress revisiting the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy that excludes openly gay men and lesbians from serving. SLDN reports Mullen was open to the idea when questioned by Sen. Susan Collins, a moderate Maine Republican who is pro-gay rights.

While confirming that he would implement the current law, Mullen also told Collins that “I really think it is for the American people to come forward, really through this body, to both debate that policy and make changes, if that's appropriate.” He went on to say that, “I'd love to have Congress make its own decisions” with respect to considering repeal.

Admiral Mullen's qualified but encouraging remarks are a far cry from those of Gen. Peter Pace, the homophobic outgoing Joint Chiefs Chairman who said gays were "immoral."

Joint Chiefs Nominee on 'Don't Ask, Dont' Tell' [SLDN]

Some Background ...

Romney Defends Pace's Anti-Gay Remarks [R20]
Joint Chiefs Chairman Criticizes Gays [R20]
Former Joint Chiefs Chairman: End DADT [R20]
Former Defense Secretary: End DADT [R20]