Sen. Joe Manchin, whose picture appears in the dictionary next to the definition of DINO, explains why he voted no -- the only Democrat to do so -- on yesterday's cloture vote of the Defense Authorization bill that included repealing "don't ask, don't tell."
"I do not support its repeal at this time," he said in the statement. "I would like to make clear that my concern is not with the idea of repealing DADT, but rather an issue of timing."
Uh huh. Because when it comes to ending discrimination, timing it right should always be your top priority -- you know, so you don't offend bigots and racists.
"My concerns, as highlighted in the recent defense survey and through the testimony of the service chiefs, are with the effect implementation of the repeal would have on our front line combat troops at this time," he said.
Of course. Never mind what the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff had to say, and ignore that those service chiefs all said "that they could implement it if asked to do so," because he's so concerned with the effect on front line combat troops. Except:
Manchin said he is "very sympathetic to those who passionately support the repeal," but added that he needs more time "to visit and hear the full range of viewpoints from the citizens of West Virginia."
Which is it, Joe? You're concerned about front line combat troops or finding out if the repeal is popular with the folks back home? Pick an excuse and stick with it.
The only thing Manchin's statement was missing was the claim that some of his best friends are gay.