In a case brought by the Log Cabin Republicans, a federal judge has ruled that "don't ask, don't tell" violates the U.S. Constitution.
U.S. district judge Virginia A. Phillips wrote in the 85-page opinion handed down late Thursday that the DADT statute violates the Fifth and First amendments. Log Cabin Republicans are entitled to a "permanent injunction barring its enforcement," Phillips wrote.
Log Cabin Republicans executive director R. Clarke Cooper said in response to the decision, “As an American, a veteran, and an Army reserve officer, I’m proud that the court ruled that the arcane 'don't ask, don't tell' statute violates the Constitution. Today the ruling is not just a win for Log Cabin Republican servicemembers, but for all servicemembers.”
The decision in the case, one that received scant attention in the mainstream media when it went to trial during a two-week period in July, comes amid growing concern over whether a vote on DADT repeal in the Senate will take place before lawmakers adjourn for the midterm election.
Story developing.
Click here for a pdf of the court's opinion.
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