Meaning: The quote you've provided is from John McCain, a prominent American politician who served as a United States Senator from Arizona from 1987 until his death in 2018. The quote refers to the controversial "don't ask, don't tell" (DADT) policy that was implemented in the United States military regarding the service of openly gay, lesbian, or bisexual individuals.

The "don't ask, don't tell" policy was enacted in 1993 during the Clinton administration and remained in effect until 2011. It prohibited military personnel from discriminating against or harassing closeted homosexual or bisexual service members, while at the same time barring openly gay, lesbian, or bisexual persons from military service. The policy was a compromise that aimed to strike a balance between the rights of LGBTQ individuals and the perceived impact on military morale and readiness.

In his statement, McCain expressed his position on the policy, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive review of its impact on morale and battle effectiveness before any decision to repeal it. He asserted that a realistic survey should be conducted to assess the potential consequences of repealing the policy. McCain's stance reflects the complexity and sensitivity of the issue, as it involves not only matters of equality and individual rights but also considerations of military readiness and cohesion.

McCain's position on "don't ask, don't tell" was consistent with his broader approach to military policy and national security. Throughout his career, he was known for his expertise in defense and foreign affairs, and he often advocated for a thorough and deliberative approach to military matters. His stance on the DADT policy reflected his belief in the importance of understanding the potential ramifications of significant policy changes within the military before implementing them.

The controversy surrounding the "don't ask, don't tell" policy was multifaceted, encompassing legal, social, and military considerations. Advocates for its repeal argued that it was discriminatory and contrary to the principles of equality and individual rights. They contended that openly LGBTQ individuals should be able to serve in the military without fear of repercussions or discrimination based on their sexual orientation.

On the other hand, opponents of repealing the policy raised concerns about the potential impact on unit cohesion, morale, and overall military effectiveness. They argued that allowing openly gay, lesbian, or bisexual individuals to serve could disrupt the cohesiveness of military units and undermine combat readiness. These concerns underscored the complexity of balancing individual rights with the requirements of effective military operations.

The quote from John McCain captures the nuanced and contentious nature of the debate surrounding the "don't ask, don't tell" policy. It reflects the need to carefully evaluate the potential consequences of policy changes within the military, particularly those with implications for individual rights and social progress. McCain's emphasis on conducting a realistic survey to assess the impact of repealing the policy underscores the importance of evidence-based decision-making in matters of national security and military policy.

Ultimately, the repeal of the "don't ask, don't tell" policy in 2011 marked a significant milestone in the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ rights and equality in the United States. It represented a pivotal shift in the treatment of LGBTQ individuals within the military and signaled a departure from the discriminatory practices of the past. The repeal was a testament to the evolving attitudes toward LGBTQ rights and the recognition of the value of diversity and inclusion within the armed forces.

In conclusion, John McCain's statement on the "don't ask, don't tell" policy encapsulates the complexity of the issue and the need for a thorough assessment of its impact before making any decisions about its repeal. His position reflects the challenges inherent in balancing individual rights with military readiness and underscores the importance of informed, evidence-based decision-making in matters of national security and military policy. The eventual repeal of the policy marked a significant step forward in the fight for LGBTQ rights and equality, and it stands as a testament to the ongoing evolution of social attitudes and policies within the United States.