GOP Threatens DADT Filibuster

With the backing of John McCain, GOP Senate members are threatening to filibuster any floor vote on the compromise repeal of DADT, even though the repeal will likely be attached to an important Defense funding bill.

Armed Services ranking member John McCain said Thursday that he would “without a doubt” support a filibuster if the bill goes to the floor with repeal language. “I’ll do everything in my power,” the Arizona Republican said, citing letters from the four service chiefs urging Congress not to act before a Pentagon review of the policy is complete. “I’m going to do everything I can to support the men and women of the military and to fight what is clearly a political agenda.” With Democrats trying to rally support for compromise language hammered out this week by the White House and Congressional repeal backers — and adoption of that language at this week’s Armed Services markup looking increasingly likely — Republican opponents of repealing the 1993 law are beginning to look ahead to floor debate.

Earlier today, Sen. Ben Nelson (D-NE) indicated that he would provide the final necessary vote to move the repeal bill out of the Senate Armed Services Committee. A full debate and vote on the Senate floor is expected to take place after the Memorial Day break.