Donald Trump is reportedly planning to sign an executive order soon after his inauguration to ban transgender individuals from serving in the military.
The order, which could take effect immediately, would also medically discharge the thousands of currently serving transgender service members.
This move is part of a broader set of executive actions Trump intends to implement, including significant changes to immigration policy, all of which are likely to face legal challenges.
During his first term, Trump banned transgender people from serving in the military, citing costs and potential disruptions, with the policy taking effect in 2019. This ban was reversed by President Joe Biden, but Trump now appears poised to reinstate and expand the policy.
The reported plan has sparked concerns, with critics arguing it would worsen the military’s recruitment challenges and harm unit cohesion. Advocates highlight that roughly 15,000 transgender service members are currently in the armed forces, at a time when military recruitment is already falling short by tens of thousands.
Experts warn the policy could lead to increased financial and operational burdens while eroding readiness and morale in the armed forces.
