Leave a Comment Sagesse
ACTION: Whip the Lieberman/Collins stand-alone bill
December 10, 2010
By Adam Bink
“So it ain’t over until it’s over. And insofar as the efforts to repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”, it ain’t over. We’ve got 60 or more votes. And we’re going to keep fighting until the clock runs out. As I look at the clock, there’s as lot of time left to get this bill done.”-Sen. Lieberman, December 9th
“As Sen. Lieberman has indicated, I am convinced that there are 60 or even 61 or 62 votes to repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.”-Sen. Collins, December 9th
I wrote last night about why the Lieberman/Collins stand-alone bill to repeal “”Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” is a viable path to doing so, and perhaps even a more viable path than the previous one. The key reason is that there are 60 Senators who have publicly stated they (a) oppose the policy (b) will vote to repeal it.
But, because of legislative wrangling, mixed messages, and the like, we need to be 100% sure on this. Thus, we need to whip the key swing votes to make sure they will vote to support the Lieberman/Collins bill. In other words, for those who have only recently come out in favor, we need to make sure their support for repeal translates to the new Lieberman/Collins bill. And for those who haven’t but have refused to announce their position one way or another, we need to build pressure on them so they become our fail-safe. We have 60 pro-repeal Senators; now we just need to make sure we have 60 Senators who will vote in favor of the Lieberman/Collins bill before Congress adjourns.
To that end, this morning, Courage Campaign deployed state-specific e-mails to ask residents to call the following Senate offices. You too can help by making calls. The ask is to vote in favor of the Lieberman/Collins stand-alone bill to repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” before Congress adjourns. Then, report what you heard here:
http://www.couragecampaign.org/page/s/DADTreport
And if you could leave a comment on this post, that would also be helpful so we can quickly and continually update who’s with us.
Here are the targets:
Lisa Murkowski (R-AK): 202-224-6665
George Voinovich (R-OH): 202-224-3353
Olympia Snowe (R-ME): 202-224-5344
Richard Lugar (R-IN): 202-224-4814
Judd Gregg (R-NH): 202-224-3324
Scott Brown (R-MA): 202-224-4543
Kit Bond (R-MO): 202-224-5721
Mark Kirk (R-IL): 202-224-2854
Joe Manchin (D-WV): 202-224-3954
Two examples of why these people are targets. Yesterday, Sen. Manchin, who was a no vote, told the NYTimes he thought the policy “probably should” be ended. A senior Hill aide also told Huffington Post’s Sam Stein “I would say that if he was somehow the 60th vote, I do not think he would have voted the way he did.” Manchin is a possibility.
Snowe is also a possibility. Read between the lines in the excerpt of her statement released last night:
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Olympia J. Snowe (R-Maine) released the following statement:
“My vote today against cloture was on the basis that the Majority prohibited any amendments from being offered to the $725 billion Defense Authorization bill. It did not relate to the provision incorporated in the underlying legislation to repeal the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy, as I was still in the process of reviewing the Department of Defense’s comprehensive report released just last week and subsequent testimony of Defense Secretary Gates, Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Admiral Mullen and the five service chiefs.”
Snowe has always been a swing vote, but she is ever more so this morning.
So let’s make those calls. Ask the Senator to vote in favor of the Lieberman/Collins stand-alone bill to repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” before Congress adjourns. The target list is above. Then, report what you heard at http://www.couragecampaign.org/page/s/DADTreport and in the comments.
Let’s do this.
A sample e-mail to Massachusetts residents, targeting Scott Brown, is below.
—————-
Dear Eden –The bad news: The Senate failed to move forward (to invoke “cloture”) on a repeal vote Thursday, falling just short of the 60 votes required to bring the Defense Authorization bill to the floor for debate. Again, Republicans, led by the intransigent and shameless Sen. John McCain, filibustered repeal.
By standing in the way of DADT repeal, as a part of the Defense Authorization budget bill, the GOP decided to hold our nation’s security, the recommendations of our top military leaders, the safety of our troops, and support services for our wounded warriors hostage to tax cuts for millionaires and billionaires.
But here’s the good news: Shortly after the cloture vote failure, Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-CT) and Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) introduced a new stand-alone bill to repeal DADT, giving us a fighting chance to kill it before Congress adjourns. Sen. Collins has been described as the “tip of the spear” in the Republican caucus on repealing DADT and her advocacy could be critical in getting the remaining votes before this session of Congress ends.
Sen. Scott Brown (R-Massachusetts): 202-224-4543
Then tell us what happened on your call here: http://www.couragecampaign.org/DADTreport
Speaker Pelosi is ready to pass the Lieberman/Collins bill in the House, once it passes the Senate. Late yesterday she said, “an army of allies stands ready in the House to pass a stand-alone repeal of the discriminatory policy once the Senate acts.”
If, for some reason, a vote does not take place before Congress is scheduled to adjourn next Friday, then Sen. Harry Reid and Speaker Pelosi need to keep Congress in session. America’s active-duty servicemembers won’t be going home for the holidays — so why should Congress? Leaders stay in the fight until the mission is accomplished.
Thank you for standing up for equality.
Rick Jacobs
Chair, Courage Campaign
P.S. Every day, gay, lesbian and bisexual men and woman in uniform have to lie about who they are in order to serve our country. Please share this message with your friends and help us end this ridiculous policy, so these brave Americans can finally serve openly and with honor.
Having technical problems? E-mail equalityontrial AT couragecampaign DOT org for assistance!
110 Comments Leave a Comment
1.
Gregory in Salt Lake | December 10, 2010 at 12:59 am
no hope for Utah Senators…but I'll keep bugging them.. : / subs
2.
adambink | December 10, 2010 at 1:03 am
Here's a video of the Lieberman/Collins press conference announcing bill introduction and how it will move:
http://www.cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/politics/…
3.
Ronnie | December 10, 2010 at 1:04 am
I'm tired of this bull…Repeal the frikin law…If you say you support repeal then you vote yes…..no ifs, ands, or buts……& stop disrespecting our soldiers…..<3…Ronnie
4.
Doug | December 10, 2010 at 1:05 am
Let me see, Reid duped us in September. Then again yesterday. What is it when you do the same thing over and expect different results? Just sayin'
5.
Lesbians Love Boies | December 10, 2010 at 1:07 am
Same here in AZ Greg! I think I will just go ahead and also call all of those on the list…JIC.
6.
Gregory in Salt Lake | December 10, 2010 at 1:08 am
LOL! I'll call McCain…you call Orin Hatch : )
7.
Sagesse | December 10, 2010 at 1:10 am
Good luck people. Observing with hopeful interest from the Great White North. Supposed to be working.
8.
Lesbians Love Boies | December 10, 2010 at 1:10 am
Deal!
9.
adambink | December 10, 2010 at 1:14 am
Call folks on the list.
10.
adambink | December 10, 2010 at 1:15 am
I strongly disagree with your analysis. I'm running to the DADT rally, but I'll have more later. The outstanding point is that a free-standing bill was promised to get a vote. That's the thing to focus on now.
11.
JPM | December 10, 2010 at 1:19 am
I just don't get it.
NO!!!!! The ask should be to demand that the Senator vote for cloture to allow the bill to proceed.
We couldn't care less whether the Senator votes in favor of the bill or not. There are plenty of votes for that.
Everyone continues to make the same mistake, equating a statement of support for repeal of DADT with a commitment to vote for cloture.
arggghhh
12.
Gregory in Salt Lake | December 10, 2010 at 1:25 am
thank you for video : ) somewhat hopeful after disappointments yesterday…not over 'til its over….
Ok Susan Collins…got the point…now VOTE TO REPEAL!
13.
Gregory in Salt Lake | December 10, 2010 at 1:44 am
of course !
14.
Gregory in Salt Lake | December 10, 2010 at 1:46 am
I strongly agree w/ adam!
15.
Courtney | December 10, 2010 at 2:01 am
Adam, great post.
Everyone needs to get out and call the senators! I called Senator Kirk today and left a voicemail. It only takes a minute and could make a huge difference!
16.
Meagan | December 10, 2010 at 2:01 am
Called Sen. Voinovich again today–took two hours to get through. He had no statement about how he'll vote or why he didn't vote for the defense authorization bill. I WANTED him to say he values tax cut for the wealthy over our military… but alas, no gratification.
17.
Ronnie | December 10, 2010 at 2:03 am
Erasure has given a facelift to "A Little Respect"…..The music video & track features the Hetrick-Martin Institute Youth Chorus. Proceeds from the HMI Redux single through iTunes will be donated to The Hetrick-Martin Institute, the home of the Harvey Milk High School, in New York, & the True Colors Fund. HMI is the oldest & largest LGBTQ youth organization……<3…Ronnie:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RO30UxZG4Vo
18.
Gregory in Salt Lake | December 10, 2010 at 2:04 am
Yay for Erasure! have 3 of their albums on my phone : )
19.
Ann S. | December 10, 2010 at 2:05 am
√
20.
Freddy | December 10, 2010 at 2:31 am
I love it, Sen Sanders from VT has gone old school on the senate floor and has started a "Tax Cut Filibuster" and is about to move into the 3rd hour. The GOP wants to play around and not pass anything, let them, I wonder how long Sanders can keep this up, right now Brown from OH has stepped in to give him a break.
As Alan has said before,
Break out the Cots!
21.
Mykelb | December 10, 2010 at 2:38 am
Our American legislators are nothing if not cowards. We will win this fight in Court. It has already been deemed unConstitutional the courts at the lower levels. We will just have to wait until it reaches the SCOTUS to exact equality.
22.
bJason | December 10, 2010 at 2:44 am
Awesome! I haven't had an "Erasure Day" in forever.
23.
fiona64 | December 10, 2010 at 2:45 am
Get him to have "David Copperfield" sent over from the Library of Congress to read aloud.
Love,
Fiona
24.
bJason | December 10, 2010 at 2:51 am
I hope everyone is keeping in mind that the language in this bill/amendment IS NOT REPEAL. It is easier to call it that for the sake of brevity. I just don't want anyone to be confused or let down.
It is the best we've got and we should be busting ass for it but it is not repeal. Even IF it passes there will still be work to be done. The pressure will shift to the President and the Pentagon. That pressure will be much harder for us to exert, I am afraid.
Stay strong. Fight hard!!
25.
Ginger | December 10, 2010 at 3:01 am
Called Lugar a few minutes ago. His voice-mail-box is full, but I'll try again later.
Ginger in IN
26.
Ginger | December 10, 2010 at 3:02 am
Got in finally and spoke to an aid!
27.
bJason | December 10, 2010 at 3:11 am
For those of you who would like to make your calls to the Congressional switch board Toll Free the number is:
877-SOB-U-SOB
I'm really not kidding!! 877-762-8762 I think that is beyond hysterical!
I just called both of my rotten GA senators. No surprise from their answers: "NO, won't vote for it".
Now on to the above list!
28.
Kathleen | December 10, 2010 at 3:49 am
Late to the party, but will get on the phone right away.
29.
BOB | December 10, 2010 at 3:51 am
bJason,,,, thanks a bunch for that number too late for me,,,,
Murkowski's receptionist, says she has not issued a statemnt on which way she will vote,
Lugar same, no indication, wait and see
Gregg same no statement, on which way he will go
Kit Bond, actually female receptionist engaging, but she says he'll plrobably vote the way he did before no…….
when asked they said they were getting a lot of calls on this issue,
I can't recall if it was Brown or Scott, who's receptionist was not aware of the stand alone bill..
Bond's office was the only one that asked where I was calling from,,, and I got to make my speach about them putting our Canadina soldiers in harms way with these shenagins,,,,, he said he'd surely remmber to pass that message along…
Most cases you have to actually ask to leave a message for the senator, giving them direction on what you want…
30.
Paulie | December 10, 2010 at 4:02 am
I cannot support a repeal process without the Dream Act. Justice delayed is justice denied.
31.
Bob | December 10, 2010 at 4:06 am
great call Meagan, and great report back,,,, did you actually talk to the Senator, or an aide, I really really apreciate your attempts at conversation, and trying to get information…..you go girl……
bJason posted toll free number below,, try someone else, on their dime, and work on a conversation woot woot
32.
Freddy | December 10, 2010 at 4:07 am
Bob, you brought up a very good point, the fact that you called Brown or Scott's office and they were not aware of the individual bill. In my past I would go to D.C. during our Lobby Week and would go from office to office and ask to speak to an aid in regards to issues, we would have position papers prepared and would present the papers to the different offices that we felt needed to be informed, what surprised me more than being kicked out of McLame's office because I was not from his state, was that there were so many Reps and Senators that were not aware of the issues at hand, because there is so much day to day business, quite often there are bills that groups are pushing that don't get the support from the uninformed Reps that would be willing to support the issue if they were aware of it. Back in the day, I was working with my union to have NSPS repealed, it was one of Rummy's pet projects that never worked and is finally on its way out 4 or 5 years later. That said, I think it is important to call all the Senators on both sides of the aisle to make sure that the ones that are in support of repeal are aware of the pending bill.
Thanks for the support
Lar
33.
Kathleen | December 10, 2010 at 4:08 am
Call to Murkowski:
Delivered message – staff member said would pass along message.
I asked if Sen Murkowski intended to vote for the bill. Reply "She absolutely supports repeal of Don't Ask Don't Tell"
I asked again if she intends to vote for this bill. Reply: "If it's an actual stand alone bill – Yes."
34.
Freddy | December 10, 2010 at 4:09 am
The Dream Act was tabled so it could be addressed at a later date, keep in mind that the GOP was trying to push this through in past years. It is not dead, just not on the agenda for the current congressional session.
35.
Bob | December 10, 2010 at 4:09 am
Sagesse, doesn't hurt to ask, but as a fellow Canadian,,, would you consider using bJasons toll free number below, and call one of the Senators……
you are my attempt at getting a friend to call………..
36.
Don in Texas | December 10, 2010 at 4:09 am
Let's face it: Republicans are pure, unadulterated scum. They will never vote to repeal this discriminatory law.
The courts are the only recourse and, unless there is a change on SCOTUS soon, the prospects are not very bright.
Someone in West Virginia should tell newly-minted Senator Manchin that his vote with Republicans against DADT repeal will be remembered. The stench from his betrayal will linger for a long, long time.
37.
Freddy/Lar | December 10, 2010 at 4:10 am
That's one more for us, thanks Kathleen for your support.
Lar
38.
Kathleen | December 10, 2010 at 4:10 am
Btw, I'm not sure what the implication is of the answer I got from Murkowski's staff. Anyone who's more in the know think of a way that might be hedging? If so, what more specific question do we need to be asking?
39.
Michelle Evans | December 10, 2010 at 4:11 am
It is also very hard to support a process that also leaves out transgender individuals. Unfortunately, this is too often the case, and DADT is no exception.
My friends on this board have always been fully supportive, but in general, there is a long history of even within the lesbian and gay community of trans being outcast in order to get protections for the rest. Look at what happened to us during the vote on ENDA three years ago. Trans protections were literally stripped from the bill, and that was deemed a great idea from folks at HRC and congressmen such as Barney Frank. Since then, when it was stated that ENDA would only move forward with trans inclusion, absolutely nothing has happened to do so.
If trans people were also included in any repeal language for DADT, I doubt the bill would even be discussed as moving forward.
40.
Mackenzie | December 10, 2010 at 4:12 am
They deserve their own medicine that is for sure. The one thing I am weary of however is not moving forward with the Tax cut bill. Many of those senators who voted no, while I believe were hiding behind the veil of procedure, also stated that they wouldn't move on another bill into the tax cut extension past. I just don't want to see our last hope in the legislature go down because our side is now giving back what is deserved.
41.
Lesbians Love Boies | December 10, 2010 at 4:13 am
I disagree Don. Some Republicans do want DADT repealed – and it's those republicans we are calling to voice our concerns that they do in fact vote to repeal.
Sen. Collins is a Republican and is a co-sponsor of this bill – I personally think more will get on board.
42.
adambink | December 10, 2010 at 4:18 am
I think the recipient of the message (the person answering the phone) can decipher between the messages.
43.
adambink | December 10, 2010 at 4:19 am
Thanks, this is extremely helpful.
44.
adambink | December 10, 2010 at 4:20 am
Thanks Freddy. Rest assured that internally, the co-sponsors will work to make them aware as well.
45.
Gregory in Salt Lake | December 10, 2010 at 4:28 am
Michelle – I was unaware : ( I assumed (bad me) that it included LGBTIQQA in others words, EVERYONE.
When working on different issues here in Salt Lake LGBT is the language used. Example of something just passed this week:
Tuesday evening the Salt Lake City School Board passed two very important board policies.
The anti discrimination and harassment Policy G-19 was passed protecting both sexual orientation and gender identity for both students and employees., in a 4-3 vote.
The anti bullying student discipline policy S-3, was passed protecting many typically targeted populations, including those students who are or perceived to be LGBT, in a 6-1 vote.
comments from our PFLAG President Kathy Godwin:
"(it was passed) due to some very hard work done by the school board members which began in late spring 2009. There is still work to be done, but the foundation has been set for protection for all. The evening was a very long and difficult debate amongst the board members, which was both emotional and exhausting. "
I'm so sorry about the EVEN MORE discrimination you endure. Love, Gregory
46.
Freddy/Lar | December 10, 2010 at 4:28 am
Adam, are you going to post an update here as to how the DADT rally went?
47.
Kathleen | December 10, 2010 at 4:30 am
Thank you for your service. There is no amount of 'thank yous' that can possibly do justice to what you've been willing to sacrifice for me and my fellow citizens.
48.
StraightForEquality | December 10, 2010 at 4:38 am
I just talked to Sen. Gregg's office. They seemed busy and I had to wait on hold for a while to get through. I didn't get to give my whole pitch, but it probably wouldn't have been relayed to Sen. Gregg anyway. They know what I am asking for, and that much should be passed on or tallied.
49.
Andrew_SEA | December 10, 2010 at 4:40 am
Sweet – thanks Ronnie. Purchased and loaded!
/dances around with tears in his eyes
50.
Dave in ME | December 10, 2010 at 4:46 am
Been calling Sen Snowe and the line's been busy a lot. Called Collins on Wednesday. I'm so glad to see her support with this.
Dave in Maine
51.
Mackenzie | December 10, 2010 at 4:49 am
I am almost finished making my round of calls for the day. Senator Snowe and Voinivich keep giving busy tones. Senator Greggs receptionist was in my opinion rude, and when I called my senators office, Bond, the receptionist seemed very nice. Not forthcoming with details but when I gave him my request, he seemed very receptive.
52.
Kathleen | December 10, 2010 at 4:50 am
Results so far of remainder of calls – and response to question about whether the Senator intended to vote for the bill.
Voinovich and Snowe – busy signal
Lugar – asked where I was from and said "No statement yet"
Gregg – asked where I was from, when I said California, staff member seemed eager to get me off the phone, but managed to get an answer "Sen. Gregg has not yet indicated" how he intends to vote.
Brown – went straight to voicemail – left a message
Bond – "Senator hasn't made a statement yet."
Kirk – asked for my name and zip code. Response to question, "Wouldn't want to speculate."
Manchin – asked for my name and location. "Just heard of the bill the morning, so no indication yet."
53.
Bob | December 10, 2010 at 4:52 am
great point Freddy, and from prior experience too,,,, I'm surprized now that nobody has thought to do that, circulate a messge to all senators,
take care Freddy, back to the phones know that you reopened the list,
54.
Michelle Evans | December 10, 2010 at 4:52 am
Gregory,
You have mentioned the key language that is usually left out of so many laws: "gender identity." Sexual orientation is the only thing in discussion with regard to DADT.
I congratulate the Salt Lake City School Board in doing what they did. My own family has ties to Salt Lake, and I spent a lot of time there when I was a child because my grandfather was the head of the Methodist Church in SLC. My wife, Cherie, also grew up in Brigham City as her father was a teacher at the Intermountain Indian School there. Utah is arguably the most beautiful state in America with its abundance of national and state parks. Cherie and I had once even thought of moving there from California, but my being trans decided the issue to stay here.
55.
Bob | December 10, 2010 at 5:12 am
great work Kathleen, I just called Murkowski's office, her aide says that she has issued a statement in favour of the Defense Authorization Bill, depenging on how it is put forward, and amendments,,,,, this I think is from before that vote….
when questioned about the stand alone bill, he said, he is not aware of her stand on that issue alone……
you're right, we need to hone our line of questioning, for more specific information,,,,, and she perhaps is someone who needs some zeroing in on……
it's important to raise the stand alone issue, and tell them to vote in favour of that alone,,,,
I said I was trying to determine if we could count on her, he said he will definetly pass on that information,,,,
56.
Ronnie | December 10, 2010 at 5:15 am
I called last night & was actually told by Scott Brown's staff that he supports repeal but his vote was based on procedure, debate, tax cuts blah blah & that I should call my state senators….I said If they voted no I would have to call them but since both Lautenburg & Menendez voted yes to repeal DADT & pass the NDAA I don't need to do that, but thanks for the suggestion…Have a nice day…..<3…..Ronnie
57.
Ronnie | December 10, 2010 at 5:16 am
uggg…I said have a nice holiday…..<3…Ronnie
58.
Bob | December 10, 2010 at 5:16 am
you know what Don in Texas, you deserve what you get,
"someone in West Viginia should tell Manchin"
that someone is you, that's the game plan today, not what someone else should do,,,,,, the challenge today is for you to do it yourself….. use the toll free number below…tell him what you think,, not us…
if you won't make that one little effort, yourself, you will just go on blaming others,,,,,,,
and I know he's not your senator, but what matters here is individual initiative, do something…
59.
Bob | December 10, 2010 at 5:19 am
@Doug, no matter how many times you are duped, if all you do is point that out and bitch about it, and basically do nothing,,,, that is insanity……
Call Reid and tell him what you think, you're blowing against the wind here…..
hit the phone engage a senators aide, do something…
60.
Kathleen | December 10, 2010 at 5:21 am
My message was very specific – urging a vote on the Lieberman/Collins stand alone bill to repeal DADT. The answers above are to the question "Will Sen. Murkowski be voting for this bill?"
As I indicated, the first answer I was given just an indication that she supports repeal of DADT and when I asked again if she intends to vote for THIS bill (the stand-alone bill) I got the answer I quoted above.
I don't know how the the question could have been misunderstood by the staff member I spoke to, especially given the response.
My question has more to do with whether there was something in that answer which suggests the Senator could interpret the Liberman/Collins bill to not be a "true stand alone" bill.
61.
Ronnie | December 10, 2010 at 5:26 am
You're welcome…<3…Ronnie
62.
Bob | December 10, 2010 at 5:27 am
Michelle, thanks for your comments, your issues are important,
did you read the post the other day, about the Canadian military, developing policy to deal with transgender in a very positive way,,,,,,, not a concilation but,,,
Canada started by allowing open service, and then made the natural extension to including transgender individuals, they are working on it now……
I can only hope the same happens in the U.S. you won't be forgotten, the fight doesn't end till everyone has equality….
63.
Andrew_SEA | December 10, 2010 at 5:28 am
I don't want ot be a naysayer on everyone's work, but how will sending in a seperate request/whatever for DADT be any different?
If the tax issue is not solved, will those Republicans do anything EVEN if they signed that letter to boycott everything until they get what they want?
Will this stripped DADT bill/whatever ever get through that or will they yet again stand their ground due to Extortion – er – I mean principle.
The clock is ticking during lame duck and I am very skeptical on their motives and what they will actually do.
The reasons given for them ranged from:
1) signed a letter – Tax cuts before anything else.
2) procedural issues – need for X hours of debate, X number of amendments, X lattes (my addition), X (anything they can think of to delay until the new congress is in – again, my insertion).
I dunno. I want to be optimistic, but I also don't want to be fooled again and extorted due to not getting what they want first.
I think the path Adam laid out is a great one – and we need to work it. But I would also like to see a complete listing of those whom voted against it and the reason why they did. If they were at the dentist – show that as well.
List all of the items up for vote and denied – including the medical expenses of those who supported 9/11 as fodder due to their insistence of the tax bill.
List should be published. Printed in as many news media outlets as humanly possible. Show the exact reason why people whom were elected are not doing their job and which citizens are hurt by said inaction all because they want to throw a "hissy-fit" at their place of employment.
… and they say stereotypically LGBT's are high drama…
64.
Bob | December 10, 2010 at 5:32 am
Kathleen, gottcha, "if it's a true stand alone bill" then what is a true stand alone bill???
65.
Bob | December 10, 2010 at 5:38 am
thanks Ronnie, didn't mean to be in your face, glad to get your input, I know you are good at this,,,,,
once the bill is pased they can all have a nice holiday…. and I especially wish you and your mom and your little pooch the best holiday ever……. and you get the aplartment in NY
66.
Ed | December 10, 2010 at 5:38 am
OT, but a transcript of the sullivan/gallagher debate….
http://talkaboutequality.wordpress.com/2010/12/08…
Ed
67.
Gregory in Salt Lake | December 10, 2010 at 5:44 am
Love hearing more about you Michelle : ) Your contributions here are significant and often poignant. THANK YOU!! ((HUGS)) to you and Cherie.
68.
rick Jacobs | December 10, 2010 at 5:46 am
Every single call matters. One extra call can be the difference. What you do matters.
Thanks for building this community and engaging the nation, neighbor to neighbor, to win full equality.
And thanks to Adam for keeping us up to date and focused.
Rick.
69.
Carpool Cookie | December 10, 2010 at 5:56 am
Oops….didn't put this in the intended thread. Here, again…
——————————————————————————
Okay…my boss is on the phone, so I sneaked in a call. I did an easy one first; complimenting Susan Collins for her initiative in trying to get this done.
Called toll free #…woman answered after three rings, “State Capital.” I said I was hoping to speak with Susan Collins office. Three more rings.
AIDE: “hello?”
(sounds like younger male aide, good diction.”
ME: “Hello, I was just calling in hopes of leaving a message for Ms. Colling, if that’s possible.”
(I usually use that approach, even if I know what I’m doing, as it puts the other person in the position of making a sign of good faith, and offering to help.) (BUT I also use good diction myself, so they know they’re not dealing with a loony, unawares streetperson they’ll have to lead by the hand.)
AIDE: Yes. Go ahead.
ME: I know you’re busy, but I was just watching on the news about how Ms. Collins has developed a stand alone bill on Dont Ask Don’t Tell along with Mr. Lieberman, and I just wanted to leave a message saying I think that’s the right way to go, and to thank her.”
(I hear swift typing on a keyboard)
AIDE: Okay.
ME: Thank you!
———————————————————————–
I think it also makes you less nervous if you look up the senator’s pic online, or see a newsreel on youtube….because then you don’t feel like you’re stepping into a void of nothingness. You can actually picture WHO you are talking about.
Will make other calls when boss goes to lunch, and get more specific with highlighting language re: support, stand alone bill, etc.
70.
Dave in ME | December 10, 2010 at 5:57 am
I agree, LLB. Not all Republicans are scum and not all Democrats are our allies. We need to stop pigeonholing people like this. Isn't Ted Olson a Republican as well?
And yes, my senator Susan Collins is Republican and there are many TRUE small-government conservatives that support us.
Hate doesn't belong here.
Dave in Maine
71.
adambink | December 10, 2010 at 5:59 am
Thanks Kathleen. I will follow up.
72.
Carpool Cookie | December 10, 2010 at 5:59 am
I just did that, too (SEE BELOW) She could use the support as she lobbies for it : )
73.
adambink | December 10, 2010 at 6:05 am
Thanks Kathleen, extremely helpful.
74.
adambink | December 10, 2010 at 6:05 am
Yes, soon.
75.
bJason | December 10, 2010 at 6:21 am
The bill is S.4022. Below is a link the the Library of Congress on it. The text of the bill is not up yet.
http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d111:S.40…
<3 Jason
76.
Meagan | December 10, 2010 at 6:21 am
Just an aide.
Actually talked to the aide today though, he was upbeat and friendly. The aide I talked to yesterday was pretty monotonous.
Technically I was calling while at work, so while I figured I could get away with it for my representative, I probably shouldn't be spending my time calling other people's senators.
77.
Bob | December 10, 2010 at 6:23 am
I just spoke to Murkowski's aide againg,,, I asked him about the stand alone bill,,, he says, it has not been crafted yet, it has not been written, so they have not seen it, and therefore he cannot comment further????
78.
Kathleen | December 10, 2010 at 6:27 am
Well, that explains the "if it's an actual stand-alone bill" qualification to the answer. It's not something about the actual bill they're hedging on, only that they hadn't yet seen the actual bill. That's hopeful news.
79.
Don in Texas | December 10, 2010 at 6:30 am
Don't attack me. I tried to send a message on Manchin's webform, but I don't live in West Virginia. They only accept comments from West Virginia residents.
You can call my comments hate if you wish, but they are my opinion and I am certainly entitled to voice that. Censorship doesn't belong here, either.
80.
Ronnie | December 10, 2010 at 6:34 am
It's all good….You have a nice holiday also….<3….Ronnie
81.
Bob | December 10, 2010 at 6:36 am
re the stand alone bill, just called senator Greggs office , his aid was very helpfull,,,,, the bill was in fact drafted yesterday, you can find it at Thomas@gov the gov't site, it's number is S4022
I haven't found it, but it may be helpfull to have a look and quote the actual bill number if there is one///
82.
Don in Texas | December 10, 2010 at 6:37 am
We agree to disagree.
Of course, there are exceptions to every generalized comment and, no doubt, there are Republicans — few in number, it seems to me — who support repeal of Don't Ask, Don't Tell.
But the fact is that repeal this unconstitutional law was blocked by 42 senators, including Ms. Collins. There is no way to deny this fact; it is a matter of record.
I stand by my comments.
83.
Sagesse | December 10, 2010 at 6:43 am
Bob, I'm snowed at work, or I would.
84.
Bob | December 10, 2010 at 6:43 am
thanks for trying to send a message, try the toll free number
1-877-762-8762 you can leave comments, from out of state, I have done so from Canada….
I very much agree with your comment about repubs, and your anger,,,,,, just encouraging you to use this method of venting today,,,,,,,
we have no gaurantee that it will accomplish what we want but it won't be for lack of attempt…..
no censorship, just asking you to pick up the phone toll free and vent your anger directly at the person…..
85.
Bob | December 10, 2010 at 6:45 am
gottcha, I loved Carpool Cookie, sneaking in her call from work,,,,,
that's not possible for everyone,,,, and you do so much already, thanks for the reply,,,,, I know where your heart is..
86.
sarah | December 10, 2010 at 6:46 am
i just called mark kirk and left a message
87.
Bob | December 10, 2010 at 6:48 am
bJason to the rescue again woot woot woot,,,,,,, big part of the puzzle, anxious to read……
88.
Kathleen | December 10, 2010 at 6:51 am
The text of the bill hasn't been submitted yet, but here is the page for it: http://tinyurl.com/24vmvju
89.
Lesbians Love Boies | December 10, 2010 at 6:54 am
I think it just hasn't been uploaded to the server by the Library of Congress yet, but the bill has been written/crafted.
90.
Kathleen | December 10, 2010 at 7:01 am
That's the impression I got, too, LLB. I'm not sure how long it takes to get it filed there.
91.
Bob | December 10, 2010 at 7:03 am
wow, the missing piece, thanks to Kathleen, we're honing our skills and talking points, kinda funny all that calling, no wonder they weren't decided,,,,,,or couldn't make a statement…
back to the phones, after we read the bill, wonder which senators will be more decisive then……..
92.
Sagesse | December 10, 2010 at 7:07 am
DADT Repeal: Heads They Win; Tails We Lose
http://andrewsullivan.theatlantic.com/the_daily_d…
93.
Don in Texas | December 10, 2010 at 7:08 am
My previous statement is incorrect, for which I apologize. In the Senate vote to invoke cloture on S. 3454, the National Defense Authorization Act, 39 Republican Senators voted "NO." They were joined by Democrat Manchin for a total of 40. Maine Senator Susan Collins voted with Democrats to invoke cloture and proceed to vote on the bill.
I regret my error.
94.
Lesbians Love Boies | December 10, 2010 at 7:09 am
The Library of Congress:
95.
Don in Texas | December 10, 2010 at 8:55 am
The column to which Sullivan linked also deserves a read.
96.
Rhie | December 10, 2010 at 9:18 am
WAtching
97.
Bob | December 10, 2010 at 11:55 am
yeah Ronnie, we already know how you feel, use the toll free line, and give a few senators your gift of the gab…..
you could leave a great rant as a message, sure they’d beep you at some point,
and I’d love to hear how you could flabergast their aids….
98.
Richard A. Jernigan | December 10, 2010 at 12:47 pm
I am printing this post out so that I have Joe Manchin's office number. I still remember when his father A. James Manchin was Secretary of State in West Virginia, and I know for a fact that Joe was not raised to discriminate like this. I am going to call him and remind him of that fact. And I will call more than once if I need to. I may live in North Carolina now, but I grew up in West Virginia, and I actually knew A. James Manchin. This is not how he raised his family.
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100.
Michelle Evans | December 10, 2010 at 4:37 pm
Sorry I didn't respond earlier. Been out all day with fun stuff like doctor appointments. Always appreciate hearing from all you great people here. And please wish Cherie a quick recovery. She fell down the stairs at our condo a few days ago and really screwed up her foot. Nothing broken, but an awful lot of pain.
101.
Kathleen | December 10, 2010 at 4:43 pm
Absolutely wishes for a speedy recovery, Cherie. Ouch!
102. S.3454 National Defense A&hellip | December 10, 2010 at 9:14 pm
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103.
Richard A. Jernigan | December 10, 2010 at 11:16 pm
Michelle, we are sending prayers and warm wishes for a speedy recovery your way, and we know that with you there, Cherie's recovery will be faster than it would be otherwise. You two are so good for and to each other.
104.
Ann S. | December 11, 2010 at 3:01 am
Best wishes for a speedy recovery for Cherie!
105.
bonobo | December 11, 2010 at 5:30 am
I know I'm gonna bite it on this one, but this is the 2nd or 3rd time you've asked us to call Senators that don't represent us.
My question is: How is this different than what NOM, Mormons and the Yes on 8 supporters did to US?
I'd call Barbara and Diane if they weren't already on our side, I always watch Diane "Teeter-Totter" F closely as she appears to scare easily. But call Senators that aren't mine? Nope, not unless someone can give me a rational reason why this isn't just loading the boxes.
Bo
106.
Bob | December 11, 2010 at 6:55 am
bonobo, great quesion,,, I'll take a stab at a reply cause I'm the bigges offender, I'm calling those senators from a foreign country….
first off, call Barbara and Diane, offer them encouragement, and ask question about process,,,,,
the first goal is to let elected officals now that citizens are taken interest in this particular piece of legislation..
secondly, we are in no way trying to load any boxes, we are transparent, i.e. tell them the truth about where you're calling from….
my experience is you can get a lot of information just by asking question…. for example Kathleen yesterday got us on track re the :stand alone bill"
I called Murkowski's office who's aid told me they hadn't seen the bill yet,,,,,new information…
I called Gregg's office whose aide was exceptional, and told me to hold the line, promised he wasn't putting me off, said he had to look for the number of the bill, while also taking other calls, eventually he did get back and give m a number of the billl he found, and said you'll need to read this, great info…
don't thnk anyone's actually seen the final draft of that bill yet, but we'll have new questions when we do, and hopefully more direct information as to senators stand on it..
we wouldn't have known all that if we didn't call and ask question….
the other thing I heard on Rachel Maddow is that the "rule 14" is in fact a process which bypasses normal process, and speeds a bill to the senate floor for the purpose of an emergencey vote to accomplish a) quick passage or b) quick death,,,, so that puts us back at 50/50 chance…
I think like Richard, those people are in office to work for the people,, when it comes to human rights, they are mucking with, any human being has the right to ask an elected official how they stand,,,, there are no boundaries for human rights, state, or national borders.
I thnk we could get much more practice engaging electied officials,,, and when it comes to human rights, I feel impassioned
Do you realize that the U.S. is in breach of the UNITED NATIONS DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS,,, and as someone else pointed out in a case like this it takes another country to raise the issue,
When a senator in some state enacts legislation that is discrimatory and impacts allied forces from other countries, including mine, that gives me the right to ask questions, and get answers…..
The United States has invaded other countries unde the guise of bringing freedom and democracy, to foreign people, while killing innocent civilians, and they still do not practice what they preach,, someone has to call them out on that..
As a member of the Rainbow Tribe, my people are affected by what your senators are doing, that give me a right to question them…….
sorry if I got in your face but I am impassioned about this….
107.
Rhie | December 11, 2010 at 12:23 pm
Yuck! Good wishes for her!
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109.
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