More Trump executive orders will put his mark on the military
Since taking office in January 2017, President Donald Trump has wasted no time in making significant changes to the way the military operates. With a series of executive orders, Trump has put his mark on the armed forces in ways that will have lasting effects for years to come.
One of Trump’s most notable executive orders is his decision to ban transgender individuals from serving in the military. This controversial move, which was announced via Twitter in July 2017, has faced numerous legal challenges and has been met with criticism from both Democrats and Republicans. Despite the backlash, the ban went into effect in April 2019, effectively barring transgender individuals from enlisting in the military or serving openly if they are already serving.
In addition to the transgender ban, Trump has also signed executive orders aimed at bolstering the military’s capabilities and readiness. In December 2017, he signed an executive order directing the Pentagon to develop a new national defense strategy aimed at countering threats from countries like China and Russia. This move was seen as a response to what Trump has called “years of neglect” under previous administrations.
Trump has also taken steps to increase funding for the military. In March 2018, he signed a $1.3 trillion spending bill that included a significant increase in defense spending, with a focus on modernizing the military’s equipment and technology. This move was hailed by defense hawks as a much-needed boost to the military’s capabilities.
Most recently, Trump signed an executive order in September 2020 aimed at promoting American-made products in the defense industry. The order directs federal agencies to prioritize the purchase of American-made goods and services, with a focus on supporting domestic manufacturers and creating jobs in the defense industry.
Overall, Trump’s executive orders have had a significant impact on the military, shaping its policies and priorities in ways that will likely continue long after he leaves office. While some of these changes have been met with controversy and pushback, others have been seen as necessary steps to strengthen the military and ensure its readiness for future challenges. As Trump’s term comes to an end, it remains to be seen how his mark on the military will be remembered in the years to come.
