In July 2004 , the American Psychological Association issued a statement that DADT " discriminates on the basis of sexual orientation " and that " Empirical evidence fails to show that sexual orientation is germane to any aspect of military effectiveness including unit cohesion , morale , recruitment and retention . " It said that the U.S. military 's track record overcoming past racial and gender discrimination demonstrated its ability to integrate groups previously excluded . The Republican Party platform that year reiterated its support for the policy — " We affirm traditional military culture , and we affirm that homosexuality is incompatible with military service . " — while the Democratic Party maintained its silence
Republican Party
2004 Republican National Convention
Don't ask, don't tell