By Abigail Philip David
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at eliminating what he referred to as “transgender ideology” from the U.S. military, marking a controversial move that could significantly impact LGBTQ rights.
The order, signed aboard Air Force One, is part of a series of military-related directives, including reinstating service members dismissed for refusing COVID-19 vaccinations and curbing diversity initiatives within the armed forces.
“To ensure that we have the most lethal fighting force in the world, we will get transgender ideology the hell out of our military,” Trump announced during a Republican retreat in Miami.
The executive order claims the armed forces have been influenced by “radical gender ideology,” which Trump argues is incompatible with military readiness. It asserts that adopting a gender identity different from one’s biological sex undermines the discipline, honor, and unity required in the military.
Trump also issued a separate directive restricting diversity programs, which he said weaken meritocracy and unit cohesion. The order bans discussions within the Department of Defense on “gender ideology” and “un-American” theories about racism or sexism in America’s founding documents.
**Transgender Policy Reversal**
Transgender individuals in the U.S. military have faced fluctuating policies. Under President Barack Obama, a ban on transgender troops was lifted in 2016, allowing them to serve openly. However, Trump sought to reinstate the ban during his first administration, leading to pushback from LGBTQ advocates.
President Joe Biden reversed Trump’s restrictions in 2021, asserting that all qualified Americans should have the opportunity to serve. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, in his recent farewell address, appeared to criticize Trump’s approach, stating, “Any military that turns away qualified patriots… makes itself smaller and weaker.”
With an estimated 15,000 transgender individuals currently serving in the military, their exclusion could further strain recruitment efforts, which are already facing challenges.
**Iron Dome Proposal**
Additionally, Trump reiterated his call for a U.S.-based version of Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system, designed to intercept short-range threats. Critics have questioned its practicality for defending against intercontinental missiles, the primary threat to the United States. Trump emphasized that the system would be domestically manufactured.
These orders signal a renewed focus on military policy under Trump’s leadership, sparking both support and backlash across political and social circles.
