The Advocate is calling this a blow for gay activists, but I’m not sure it is. At least not in the long-term. Brown doesn’t appear to be opposing any repeal attempt, just this specific attempt. Note:

The deal, outlined in a letter to Congress from the White House Office of Management and Budget, stipulates that any congressional repeal would not go into effect until the Pentagon review is completed.

But Brown says that while he is keeping “an open mind” on future efforts, he believes any vote for repeal should be put off until the Pentagon has time to formulate a plan for implementing any new policy.

“I am keeping an open mind, but I do not support moving ahead until I am able to finish my review, the Pentagon completes its study, and we can be assured that a new policy can be implemented without jeopardizing the mission of our military,” Brown said in a statement provided to the Globe.

He doesn’t want the law repealed until the Pentagon has completed its review and it’s ensured that the mission won’t be compromised. Is that somehow unreasonable? Should social activism come before ensuring the success of the mission? If so, it’s time to reassess our priorities.

Via HAH.