WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama is reaching out to gay and lesbian constituents in urging Congress to repeal the ban on them serving openly in the military.
Obama on Wednesday told lawmakers they should repeal the Clinton-era policy. But he didn’t include a commitment to suspend dismissing gays and lesbians or issue a deadline.
Obama’s reference to the so-called “don’t ask, don’t tell” practice was just one line in his State of the Union address. It drew immediate criticism from Democratic allies and underscored the challenge Obama faces, not just with Congress but also with the Pentagon.
Richard Socarides, who advised President Bill Clinton on gay issues, says Obama should have been stronger.
