THE ISSUE: “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” repeal denied

The Senate rejected a proposal Tuesday to abolish “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” the military’s policy restricting gays from revealing their sexual orientation. The federal law was first enacted 17 years ago under then-President Bill Clinton. Efforts to repeal the policy gained momentum this year after President Obama, Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Michael Mullen expressed support for the measure.

Patrons at the Westport post office gave their opinions Thursday about gays serving openly in the military.