(RINO) Sen. Collins recounts role in repealing 'don't ask' ("It was exciting")

The Press-Herald, Portland, Me. ^ | 2011-01-14 | David Hench

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PORTLAND — Sen. Susan Collins this morning described for a group of business leaders from across New England her role in repealing the law banning gays in the military.

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In a 30-minute presentation, the Republican lawmaker described the 11th-hour maneuvering against Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid in the waning days of 2010, her work to convince key Republican allies to support repeal and the challenge of opposing a close friend, renowned veteran, Sen. John McCain of Arizona.

"It was exciting to help lead what I believe to be a historic change for our country, but boy it was not easy to get there," Collins said.

Members in the group praised her leadership on the issue and her ability to work with Republicans and Democrats. Some said those traits bode well for some of the significant challenges facing the country, such as federal fiscal reform and tempering political extremism.

[hinckley buzzard]

Nice pic. Oval Office courtesy of "Budget makeover by Better Homes and Gardens."