Donald Trump, who has been no stranger to controversy since obtaining the keys to the White House, has once again sparked a social media firestorm.
This time, the fury comes after the President tweeted a new criterium for applicants to the US military: no transgenders allowed.
As often is the case, Trump took to twitter to reverse a policy put in place by Barack Obama a year ago.
He said that after consulting with his Generals, the army would not “allow or accept” transgender individuals to serve in any capacity due to the “tremendous medical costs” and “disruption” they would cause.
After consultation with my Generals and military experts, please be advised that the United States Government will not accept or allow…...— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 26, 2017
....Transgender individuals to serve in any capacity in the U.S. Military. Our military must be focused on decisive and overwhelming…..— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 26, 2017
....victory and cannot be burdened with the tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail. Thank you— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 26, 2017
Former Defence Secretary Ash Carter denounced the President’s position, saying that there were already transgender individuals serving “capably and honorably” – as did ex-soldier Chelsea Manning, who also chimed in on the social media debate, branding the move cowardice.
so, biggest baddest most $$ military on earth cries about a few trans people but funds the F-35? sounds like cowardice #WeGotThis— Chelsea E. Manning (@xychelsea) July 26, 2017
Ayla Holdom, First Transgender Military Pilot in Britain, said: “Between 2,500 and 7,000 people already serving with distinction, and then to suddenly, not just to prevent future recruitment but to say that they are no longer welcome and that their service is no longer valued, is beyond belief to me, I think. I have many friends in the US military both current and past serving, and I can only imagine how they are feeling right now.”
Many are furious over Trump’s apparent backtrack on his campaign pledge to safeguard LGBT rights in America.
After casting himself as a gay rights candidate, Trump has only managed to further alienate a community he promised to help. Trump’s administration has also rescinded protections for trans students in public schools, and this action will further alienate a community he said he would help.
