Big New: Chris Cillizza just tweeted:
Sen. Scott Brown on #DADT: "I accept the findings of the report and support repeal"
Clearly this is huge. The one thing the GOP always has going for them is the lockstep opposition. Breaking a single link bodes well to getting Susan Collins, Olympia Snowe and others. United, in their opposition to the party line, they can stand together.
Be back with more. As I find more sources.
John King of CNN saying same:
mass gop sen scott brown - 31 years of military experience (reserves) - backs #DADT repeal. #cnn
Update 1:
Apparently an announcement was expected, from Salon, Is Scott Brown Boxed In on DADT?
According to his office, Brown will announce his position after committee's hearings wrap up today, but it seems clear which way he's leaning. If he does opt to support repeal, it won't by itself change much. With Mark Kirk's swearing-in last week, Republicans now have 42 seats in the Senate, so Democrats need two GOP votes to break any filibuster (at least for the next few weeks). But if Brown is willing to buck his party, it could be a sign that the chamber's few other moderate Republicans -- essentially, Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe, and maybe Richard Lugar and the retiring George Voinovich -- are willing to cross over, too.
Update 2: CONFIRMED!
Here's the statement from his website:
Dec 03 2010
Scott Brown Statement On Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell
WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Senator Scott Brown (R-MA) today issued the following statement on the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy:
"I have been in the military for 31 years and counting, and have served as a subordinate and as an officer. As a legislator, I have spent a significant amount of time on military issues. During my time of service, I have visited our injured troops at Walter Reed and have attended funerals of our fallen heroes. When a soldier answers the call to serve, and risks life or limb, it has never mattered to me whether they are gay or straight. My only concern has been whether their service and sacrifice is with pride and honor.
"I pledged to keep an open mind about the present policy on Don’t Ask Don’t Tell. Having reviewed the Pentagon report, having spoken to active and retired military service members, and having discussed the matter privately with Defense Secretary Gates and others, I accept the findings of the report and support repeal based on the Secretary’s recommendations that repeal will be implemented only when the battle effectiveness of the forces is assured and proper preparations have been completed."
Wow. I've never felt more optimistic. Which is not to say, I'm not still worried there is not a Lucy & the Football moment ahead!
He isn't committing to cross McCain's filibuster and may well fabricate a reason to respect it. But he's not saying nothing, and he's not saying "no" to repeal, so it's good news.