Cross-posted at Winning Progressive
Today’s Republican refusal to allow an up-or-down vote on the Defense Reauthorization bill is a perfect example of why we progressives need to fight to protect and expand our Democratic majorities in November. 57 Democrats supported the bill and worked to allow for an up-or-down vote on it. All 40 Republican Senators who voted (plus two Democrats), however, filibustered and thereby prevented a decision by the majority.
The Republicans filibustered because they oppose repealing the military’s Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy, which prevents patriotic gay and lesbian Americans from serving their country in the military. The Democratic position in favor of repealing Don’t Ask Don’t Tell is not only morally right, it is also supported by 78% of the American public.
This Republican filibuster against fairness and equality makes crystal clear the importance of defending the Democrats who voted to end the filibuster, and of working to elect additional Senate Democrats who can overcome future filibusters on this and other issues. Five great Democratic candidates on this issue are:
- Missouri – Robin Carnahan – In Missouri, retiring Republican Senator Kit Bond voted to support the filibuster. Democrat Robin Carnahan, who is running to fill the seat, supports repealing Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. If you live in Missouri, sign up to support Ms. Carnahan here. You can donate to her campaign by clicking here.
- North Carolina – Elaine Marshall – In North Carolina, Republican Senator Richard Burr voted to support the filibuster. Democratic challenge Elaine Marshall supports repealing Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. If you live in North Carolina, sign up to volunteer for Ms. Marshall’s campaign here. You can donate to her campaign by clicking here.
- New Hampshire – Paul Hodes – In New Hampshire, retiring Republican Senator Judd Gregg voted to support the filibuster. Democrat Paul Hodes, who is running to fill the seat, supports repealing Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. If you live in New Hampshire, sign up to volunteer for Mr. Hodes’ campaign here. You can donate to his campaign by clicking here.
- Ohio – Lee Fisher – In Ohio, retiring Republican Senator George Voinovich voted to filibuster. Democrat Lee Fisher, who is running to fill the seat, supports repealing Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. If you live in Ohio, sign up to volunteer for Mr. Fisher’s campaign here. You can donate to his campaign by clicking here.
- Kentucky – Jack Conway – In Kentucky, retiring Republican Senator Jim Bunning vote to support the filibuster. Democrat Jack Conway, who is running to fill the seat, supports repealing Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. If you live in Kentucky, sign up to volunteer for Mr. Conway’s campaign here. You can donate to his campaign by clicking here.
As today’s filibuster shows, there are real issues of fairness and equality at stake in November’s election. Get involved supporting the candidates above or your local Democratic candidate so that we can keep moving America forward.