Pelosi Statement on Senate Failure to Advance 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' Repeal

WASHINGTON, Dec. 9, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement tonight after a vote to advance the Defense Authorization bill, which repeals the discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, failed in the Senate.

"The failure of the 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' repeal, as part of the Defense Authorization bill, on a procedural vote in the Senate is a serious disappointment to the many who have worked so hard to close the door on a fundamental unfairness.

"Since the repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' has broad support among Senators, our troops, and the American people, it is my hope that that the Senate will move forward with an alternative legislative method.  The bipartisan proposal from Senators Lieberman and Collins provides renewed hope that progress is still possible in the Senate; an army of allies stands ready in the House to pass a standalone repeal of the discriminatory policy once the Senate acts.

"Moving forward to end the days of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' will honor the service and sacrifice of all who dedicate their lives to protecting the American people."

SOURCE Office of the Speaker of the House