Blog: Repealing DADT

Statement

Today's vote against the repeal of the military's discriminatory "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy underscores two tragic realities: the Senate has chosen to leave enshrined an immoral and ineffective policy, and it has done so on the back of a broken system in dire need of institutional reform.

DADT is an ill-conceived policy that defies logic and hurts our national security. We don't need a report to tell us that the unequal status of LGBT servicemembers sanctioned by current law conflicts with the Constitution and the character of our nation.

Today, a majority of Senators voted in favor of repealing DADT. Yet, because of the abuse of the filibuster, that majority fell short in its quest to grant each and every American the equality they deserve.

My race is a unique one, in that if the people of Illinois choose me to be their Senator, I will be able to fight for both the repeal of DADT and for fair filibuster reform this November.

I intend to win this race, and I intend to fight from day one for the immediate repeal of DADT so that we may finally grant our brave heroes the dignity and honor they all deserve.

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