Trump Administration Moves to Ban Most Transgender People From Military

Trump just banned most transgender people from military service.

A new order states that those who undergo “substantial medical treatment,” including medications and surgery are “disqualified” from joining the military except in some situations.

Critics were quick to condemn the decision.

Representative Joe Kennedy III tweeted, “Banning transgender men and women from serving in our military is based on nothing more than bigotry. To all of the brave trans troops in uniform today, please know that this President does not speak for a country eternally gratefully for your service. #ProtectTRansTroops.”

Ted Lieu tweeted, “As a veteran who served on active duty, we focused on the mission. We didn’t care if you were transgender, bald, gay, or had freckles. No evidence a trans sniper is less accurate or a trans pilot is less effective. Stupid bigotry from @RealDonaldTrump. #TrotectTRansTroops.”

Secretary of Defense James Mattis has recommended Trump allow current transgender troops to stay if they haven’t undergone reassignment surgery, have been “medically stable” for 36 consecutive months in their “biological sex” before their service, and are able to deploy worldwide. The move comes after Trump’s announcement in July that he would prevent transgender people from serving their country. Officials say that the ban comes after “extensive study” by senior uniformed and civilian leaders.”

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