When it comes to the first real effort to repeal "don't ask, don't tell," who needs Republicans to block the way?
From Senator Jim Webb (D-VA):
"Secretary of Defense Gates and Admiral Mullen have laid out a specific and responsible plan to examine the current 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy in a manner that includes a comprehensive survey of those wearing the uniform. The White House and Secretary Gates both said today that, ideally, the Defense Department should complete this review before legislative action is taken. There is no question that a review of the policy is necessary and important. I see no reason for the political process to pre-empt it."
Did Webb purposely ignore what the Amendment says? That:
... the current policy would remain in place and implementation of repeal would not occur until after the Pentagon’s working group study is finished in December.
Of course both the White House and Gates will quickly reassure Webb and publicly press him to support the amendment ... right?