Washington's Senior Senator, Patty Murray, voted to repeal DADT and had this reaction to today's news:

It is truly shameful that Senate Republicans continue to block the repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.’ This policy has failed in its intended goals, and done a tremendous disservice to men and women who want nothing more than to defend their country and the freedoms America stands for—and it’s time for it to go. I am going to keep working to repeal ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,’ and I urge Senate Republicans to end their obstruction and allow this bill to pass.

UPDATE: Washington Senator Maria Cantwell, who also voted for the repeal, makes the point that Dan wants made:

When a clear majority of our troops, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Secretary of Defense, and authorities such as former Senator Sam Nunn, believe that 'don’t ask, don’t tell' policy can be repealed without harming military readiness, it is disappointing that this measure continues to be subject to a partisan filibuster. The repeal is measured and responsible, providing the Department of Defense with the necessary time to properly implement this important policy shift.

The Defense Authorization bill is must-pass legislation that provides critical policy guidance and funding for our troops, and no Senate has failed to pass the legislation in 48 years. At a time when we are engaged in military operations Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as a developing crisis in Korea, it is irresponsible to block legislation critical to the safety and operation of our troops. I hope we are able to resolve this impasse before Congress adjourns.

And here's what President Obama has to say:

I am extremely disappointed that yet another filibuster has prevented the Senate from moving forward with the National Defense Authorization Act. Despite having the bipartisan support of a clear majority of Senators, a minority of Senators are standing in the way of the funding upon which our troops, veterans and military families depend. This annual bill has been enacted each of the past 48 years, and our armed forces deserve nothing less this year.

A minority of Senators were willing to block this important legislation largely because they oppose the repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.’ As Commander in Chief, I have pledged to repeal this discriminatory law, a step supported by the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and informed by a comprehensive study that shows overwhelming majorities of our armed forces are prepared to serve with Americans who are openly gay or lesbian. A great majority of the American people agree. This law weakens our national security, diminishes our military readiness, and violates fundamental American principles of fairness, integrity and equality.

I want to thank Majority Leader Reid, Armed Services Committee Chairman Levin, and Senators Lieberman and Collins for all the work they have done on this bill. While today’s vote was disappointing, it must not be the end of our efforts. I urge the Senate to revisit these important issues during the lame duck session.