More Microsoft

Robert points out below that Microsoft has turned around on their original turnaround and has decided to support the Washington State non-discrimination bill.

Microsoft's CEO, Steve Ballmer, sent an email to Microsoft's employees which dredges up a business justification for supporting the bill, but also, I think reflects the amount of pressure they have been under. Fundamentally, it reads like a letter from someone who is very tired of talking about the issue and just wants to get back to crushing open source software:

The questions raised by these issues are important. At the same time, we have a lot of other important work to do. Over the next 18 months we’ll release a broader, more advanced and more exciting set of products than at any time in the company’s history. Let’s all recommit to the job ahead, using our diversity as a strength to work together creatively and with respect for each other.

Some credit is due, I think, to John at Americablog for hammering on this issue.