I am disappointed at the deplorable conduct of Senator McCain during the ”Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) hearing with Secretary Gates and Admiral Mullen. It was a clear demonstration of the bitterness that GOP leaders have toward the current administration and evidence that they do not understand that the laws of our nation should protect all people, equally, no matter how small the minority may be.

The repeal of DADT is a no brainer, just as the desegregation of the military and admission of women into the ranks were. Additionally, I’m disappointed that it is accepted that the study on the effect of the repeal will take a year, as if the entire foundation of the world would shift when servicemen are allowed to mention that they are calling their boyfriend, instead of having to dodge the issue. Equality is actually a rather simple issue. Just do it. The difficulty is the piecemeal way we have to go about it; the legalities of repealing DADT and continuing to dance around Defense of Marriage Act DOMA.

Let’s take a look at McCain’s behavior and comments during the hearing:

Let’s take a look at why his behavior and comments make him a flip-flopper on the issue of DADT:

And now, let’s see why he’s so angry:

That’s right, that’s John McCain’s beloved meal ticket wife, who’s supporting gay rights by participating in the No H8 Campaign. There’s obviously a difference of opinion in the McCain home.

Well, Cindy’s photoshoots may not be the only reason McCain is playing the angry man in the room. He’s facing an ultra-conservative primary challenger in the form of JD Hayworth and polling has at points shown the two to be even, although McCains seems to have a pretty good lead now. With pressure to show Republicans in Arizona that he’s still their man, McCain has been swinging to the right, establishing himself firmly as a leader within the Party of No, and giving in to corporate interests in the name of false openess.

For McCain, his anger isn’t about military readiness or congressional oversight; it’s about politics. His actions aren’t about getting things done; they are about scoring points. I hope Hayworth gives him a run for his money, and a strong Democrat has a chance at taking this seat and actually work to move this nation forward.

Related posts:

1. From the State of the Union to action: “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” targeted
2. Don’t Ask Don’t Tell Protest a Success in Virginia Beach
3. Reflecting on the National Equality March