Just elected U.S. President Donald Trump has sparked controversy with his recent remarks about transgender soldiers, announcing plans to dismiss over 15,000 service members first day in the White House.
Trump, known for his polarizing statements, declared that his administration would require individuals to “choose if [they] are man or woman.”
He expressed concerns about the financial implications of retaining transgender personnel in the military, citing ongoing medical treatments as a burden on government resources.
“They’re on constant treatment all the time, making the government spend money on them too much,” Trump said during a public address.
This announcement has reignited debates over LGBTQ+ rights, military readiness, and healthcare funding, drawing criticism from advocacy groups who argue the policy undermines equality and inclusivity in the armed forces.
Trump’s position echoes his 2017 policy to ban transgender individuals from military service, which faced significant backlash before being partially reversed by the Biden administration.
As the 2024 presidential race heats up, Trump’s remarks are likely to fuel further discussions on the intersection of military policy and social issues.