New questions about 'don't ask don't tell'

WASHINGTON, Aug. 9 (UPI) -- Attitudes on gay military service are changing, but significant obstacles stand in the way of repealing "don’t ask don’t tell."

The need for qualified troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, combined with changing overall attitudes about gays and lesbians are causing many to question the policy, which bans openly gay men and women from serving in the military, the Los Angeles Times reported Thursday.

Incoming Joint Chiefs chairman Navy Adm. Michael G. Mullen said he was open to a congressional review of the policy during his confirmation hearing last month. And even Colin Powell, who famously warned gay service would hurt the military as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has said that attitudes have shifted.

Meanwhile, polls of rank-and-file servicemen and women indicate most are comfortable serving alongside gays and lesbians.

Democratic presidential hopefuls have also voiced support for a review of "don’t ask don’t tell" along with some prominent Republicans.

But the policy must be changed in Congress where, though there is increasing support for an overhaul, a bill allowing openly gay military service would still face a tough road -- especially in the Senate where a filibuster is likely, the Times said.