Two key senators thought to be open to repealing the ban on openly gay soldiers serving in the military — Maine Republicans Susan Collins and Olympia Snowe — complained Monday that Republicans were being shut out of the debate.

Collins “believes that our armed forces should welcome the service of any qualified individual who is willing and capable to serve our country,” said spokesman Kevin Kelley. “She would like the Senate to proceed to a full and open debate on the defense authorization bill, with members able to offer amendments on all relevant issues.”

Snowe also called for a more open process, though unlike Collins, she expressed doubts about the bill’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” repeal plan. It is “imperative that Senate deliberations on the defense bill be conducted without limitations and in a manner that allows for the consideration of all related amendments that senators may wish to offer,” she said in a statement.