Lawmakers should be clear that the United States remains committed to ensuring lesbian and gay Americans are treated just like their heterosexual counterparts in the security clearance process. Our national security is too important to be undermined by prejudice and discrimination.

The American people could not be clearer about their opposition to the continued exclusion of lesbian and gay Americans from our armed forces. Support for repealing the military's ban has grown by fifteen percent in the South, eight percent among moderate Republicans and nine percent among Catholics. In virtually every community, constituents are sending a clear message to their elected leaders that the time has come to repeal 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell.' Our nation supports treating everyone who sacrifices for our national defense, whether gay or straight, with the dignity and respect they deserve.

There is no reason lesbian, gay and bisexual Americans should be prohibited from serving our country. The men and women in this lawsuit represent the best of our armed forces. They are patriotic, dedicated veterans. America should welcome their contributions and honor their commitment to our country.

It provides incentives to anyone who wants to hurt someone by accusing them of being gay in order to get rid of them.

To suggest that a gay kiss-in is a 'credible threat' is absurd, homophobic and irrational. The Pentagon is supposed to defend the Constitution, not turn it upside down.

The Justice Department is staunchly committed to ensuring that all Americans are treated in a fair and just manner.