THE PENTAGON — The Defense Department has announced plans to repeal a long-standing policy that barred Democrats from serving in the military, sources confirmed today.

"Democrats, liberals, and swing voters will now be able to serve openly in the armed forces," Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said in a statement. "As long as they meet readiness standards."

"I can't believe this day is actually here," said Spc. Wade Serkis, a Democrat from California who enlisted in 2016. "It feels like I'm no longer living a lie."

Not everyone was pleased with the announcement. Several Pentagon officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, condemned the decision.