Sen. Ben Nelson of Nebraska says he’ll vote to repeal military gay ban
By Anne Flaherty, APWednesday, May 26, 2010
Nebraska’s Nelson backs end of military’s gay ban
WASHINGTON — Sen. Ben Nelson says he will vote to repeal the law that bans gays from serving openly in the military. The announcement raises the chances for the measure’s passage.
The conservative Nebraska Democrat’s support could prove crucial when the measure comes before the Senate Armed Services Committee Wednesday.
In a statement released Wednesday, Nelson says he has decided to support the legislation because it allows the Defense Department to determine when and how to implement any changes. Nelson says that “removes politics from the process” and ensures repeal is “consistent with military readiness and effectiveness.”
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Sen. Ben Nelson says he will vote to repeal the law that bans gays from serving openly in the military. The announcement raises the chances for the measure’s passage.
The conservative Nebraska Democrat’s support could prove crucial when the measure comes before the Senate Armed Services Committee Thursday.
In a statement released Thursday, Nelson says he has decided to support the legislation because it allows the Defense Department to determine when and how to implement any changes. Nelson says that “removes politics from the process” and ensures repeal is “consistent with military readiness and effectiveness.”
(This version CORRECTS day of the week to Wednesday, sted Thursday.)
