Rick Perry has defended releasing an
anti-gay ad in early caucus state Iowa.
In the 30-second ad, titled Strong,
Perry says there is something wrong with America when gay troops can
serve openly in the military but children cannot openly celebrate
Christmas and accuses President Barack Obama of waging a war on
religion.
During an appearance on Fox
News Sunday, Perry told host Chris Wallace that he would work
to undo repeal of “Don't Ask, Don't Tell,” the recently ended
policy that for 18 years banned gay and bisexual service members from
serving openly.
When Wallace asked, “And after repeal
of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell,' are you saying that anyone who supports
'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' is anti-religious?” Perry insisted that the
policy was working.
“[I]t was working. And for the
commander-in-chief to use your military as a political tool while we
are in combat in two different locations – at least two different
locations around the world, in Iraq and Afghanistan – I think is
just irresponsible.”
“I am commander-in-chief of 20,000
plus men and women. I served in the United States Air Force. I
understand the issue.”
“And I don't think it's one that the
president of the United States and Congress for that matter should be
forcing upon the men and women of the military. I think it was bad
public policy and I would change it.”
The ad has been lampooned by Stephen
Colbert and GOP presidential rival Fred
Karger. Parodies
of the ad have overtaken the Internet.