President-elect Donald Trump may reinstate a ban on transgender individuals serving in the U.S. military, according to a report from The Times. The proposed executive order, which could be signed on Trump’s first day in office, would potentially force thousands of transgender service members out of their roles.
This decision comes as the U.S. military grapples with significant recruitment challenges. Critics warn that such a move could exacerbate an already dire situation, with the armed forces failing to meet recruitment targets by 41,000 recruits last year.
Reversing Biden’s Order
The Independent reports that approximately 15,000 transgender individuals are currently serving in the U.S. military. Their abrupt dismissal could further strain an already stretched system.
During his first term, Trump announced in 2017 that transgender individuals would no longer be allowed to serve in the military, citing “tremendous medical costs and disruption.”
The ban officially came into effect in 2019, although those already enlisted were permitted to continue their service. This policy faced extensive legal challenges before being reversed by President Joe Biden, who allowed transgender individuals to serve openly once again.
The Times also suggested that Trump plans to rescind Biden’s order and remove all transgender personnel.
Undermining Military Readiness
Rachel Branaman, executive director of the Modern Military Association of America, expressed strong opposition to the potential policy, stating that such a ban would undermine military readiness and worsen recruitment and retention issues.
“Discharging over 15,000 service members would harm unit cohesion, add administrative burdens to operational units, and create critical skill gaps,” Branaman explained. She also noted that removing these personnel during a time of recruitment struggles could signal vulnerabilities to adversaries.
“These people will be forced out at a time when the military can’t recruit enough people,” a source told The Times.
Trump’s inauguration is set for January 20 at the U.S. Capitol, the same site that witnessed violent riots in January 2021 following his defeat in the presidential election. If implemented, the proposed ban would mark a controversial start to his second term.
