Reports indicate that former President Donald Trump if re-elected, plans to remove all transgender members from the US military through an executive order. The move could take effect on his first day in office, The Times reported.
The proposed policy would not only dismiss thousands of active transgender service members but also reinstate a ban on transgender individuals joining the military. This comes at a time when the US armed forces are struggling to meet recruitment targets, with only the Marine Corps achieving its goals.
Critics argue that the plan could weaken military readiness and exacerbate recruitment challenges. Rachel Branaman, executive director of the Modern Military Association of America, emphasized the adverse effects of such a policy, including administrative burdens, unit cohesion issues, and skill gaps. She noted that discharging over 15,000 personnel would have long-term financial and operational consequences.
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During Trump’s first term, a similar ban was implemented but later reversed by President Joe Biden. The Pentagon estimates that 2,200 service members had been diagnosed with gender dysmorphia under the previous policy, though the exact number of transgender personnel remains unknown.
Military charities and advocates warn that the proposed policy could signal vulnerability to adversaries and hinder military effectiveness.
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