The Pentagon is expected to announce on Thursday a softening of “don’t ask, don’t tell” rules, as promised, while a full review is under way. Only Congress can overturn the policy, but the military can make limited changes, like reforming the way it handles outings by a third party.

Update:

CNN:

The official said one of the changes will be that outings by third parties may no longer be automatic grounds for initiating separation proceedings, especially if it is proven that the person making the allegation has a grudge against the military member.

Gates’ announcement will focus on regulatory changes that can be made at the Pentagon without the approval of Congress, which has been debating whether to change the policy.

Read more

Your support is crucial…

With an uncertain future and a new administration casting doubt on press freedoms, the danger is clear: The truth is at risk.

Now is the time to give. Your tax-deductible support allows us to dig deeper, delivering fearless investigative reporting and analysis that exposes what’s really happening — without compromise.

Stand with our courageous journalists. Donate today to protect a free press, uphold democracy and unearth untold stories.

SUPPORT TRUTHDIG