The head of U.S. Central Command, Gen. David Petraeus, told a Senate hearing today “the time has come” to seriously consider a change to the military’s ban on openly gay and lesbian personnel, saying:

I believe the time has come to consider a change to Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. But I think it should be done in a thoughtful and deliberative matter that should include the conduct of the review that Secretary Gates has directed that would consider the views in the force on the change of policy. It would include an assessment of the likely effects on recruiting, retention, morale and cohesion and would include an identification of what policies might be needed in the event of a change and recommend those polices as well.

His testimony is a setback for those opposed to DADT repeal, including Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.).  Petraeus is perhaps America’s most respected military leader and a darling of conservatives who opposed a draw down of U.S. troops in Iraq during the Bush administration.