Biden Overturns Trump Ban On Transgender US Troops

US President Joe Biden overturned the ban on transgender personnel working in Donald Trump’s military on Monday, saying that “all Americans” eligible to serve should be able to do so.

Biden’s new policy was set by an executive order signed by the White House.

“Simply put, transgender military personnel will no longer be subject to the possibility of gender identity-based dismissal or separation,” the White House said in a statement.

The military “prospers when it is made up of diverse Americans who can meet the strict standards of military service, and a comprehensive military strengthens our national security.”

The move canceled Trump’s controversial decision in July 2017 and banned transgender personnel from serving “in every position” in the military.

US President Joe overturns predecessor Donald Trump’s ban on transgender personnel in the U.S. military
AFP / Paul J. Richards

As Commander-in-Chief, the President of the United States has a great deal of freedom in setting Pentagon policies.

Trump has chosen to deny the plan implemented by former President Barack Obama in order for the military to begin accepting transgender recruits.

Trump argued that Obama-era policies were destructive and costly, and eroded military readiness and friendship between troops.

However, the White House said in Biden’s order to revoke Trump’s ban, “allowing transgender individuals to serve in the U.S. military openly has minimal impact on military readiness and medical costs.” Cited a 2016 study that said.