Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Chuck Hagel's confirmation about-face on gay rights appears to have stuck


Given Chuck Hagel's votes as a Senator and his long history of opposition to gay rights, many were suspicious of his confirmation hearing change of heart, but he seems to have really changed. Here's his press release following today's SCOTUS decision on gay marriage:

Statement by Secretary Hagel on DOMA Ruling
Now-Defense Secretary Chuck
Hagel in Vietnam with brother
Thomas (left).
     The Department of Defense welcomes the Supreme Court's decision today on the Defense of Marriage Act.  The department will immediately begin the process of implementing the Supreme Court's decision in consultation with the Department of Justice and other executive branch agencies.  The Department of Defense intends to make the same benefits available to all military spouses -- regardless of sexual orientation -- as soon as possible.  That is now the law and it is the right thing to do.
     Every person who serves our nation in uniform stepped forward with courage and commitment.  All that matters is their patriotism, their willingness to serve their country, and their qualifications to do so.  Today's ruling helps ensure that all men and women who serve this country can be treated fairly and equally, with the full dignity and respect they so richly deserve.

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