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What Representative Meehan wants is a change that would allow openly homosexual members of the military. That is exactly what Clinton first sought before settling for the "don't ask, don't tell" policy that was adopted.

So far, the majority of Democrats and Republicans have opposed Rangel's suggestion.

It must be noted the loss of the draft necessitated allowing women in combat roles, and the relaxing of prohibitions against homosexuals under President Clinton. It is also worthy to note it was Democratic former Senator Sam Nunn that led the opposition to Clinton's original plan to allow openly homosexual men and women to be part of our military. Sam Nunn wanted no exceptions made for homosexuals. He was vehemently opposed to allowing homosexuals in the military.

Speaking only for myself, and in direct opposition to both Democrats and Republicans, I would have preferred the draft had never been abandoned to allowing women in combat roles and allowing homosexuals in the military.