Obama Administration Seeks To Halt Effects Of DADT Ruling

The Justice Department is attempting to block a federal judge in California from issuing an injunction against Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, the policy that bans openly gay men and women from serving in the military.

Citing concern over the effects an injunction would have on military readiness and operations abroad, the Department filed the objection Thursday with California’s Central District Court.

“A court should not compel the Executive to implement an immediate cessation of the 17-year-old policy without regard for any effect such an abrupt change might have on the military’s operations,” the objection reads. It goes on to say that if an injunction is levied, it should only apply to members of the organization Log Cabin Republicans, who brought the challenge against the policy to court.

Earlier this month, District Judge Virginia Phillips ruled that Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell violates the Constitution’s first and fifth amendments. Phillips has said that she will file a nationwide injunction. 

The White House issued a statement Thursday defending the Department’s challenge and also reiterating the President’s opposition to the controversial policy.

“This filing in no way diminishes the President’s firm commitment to achieve a legislative repeal of DADT,” White House Press Secretary Robert Gates said.

Gates added that the White House will continue to pursue the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell through legislative means.

The text of the Justice Department’s 14 page objection can be read here.