Democrats Don't Ask, Don't Tell

When "don't ask, don't tell" became a policy during the Clinton era, it was controversial, but hailed as a progressive move. Now, the notion that gay men and women in the armed forces must conceal their sexuality or be dismissed could not seem more antiquated. Writing for CNN's AC360 blog, Robert Zimmerman says that President Obama, with the help of the Democratic majority, should follow up on his campaign promise and do away with the rule that has led to the departure of 12,500 troops who came out of the closet. At a time when the military is already "stretched thin," "don't ask, don't tell" only exacerbates the situation while also trampling on gay men and women's rights.