1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

The Trump administration's directive to remove transgender troops from military service undermines military readiness and ignores the valuable contributions of dedicated personnel. Transgender service members have proven their commitment to the nation through honorable service and combat deployments. Arbitrarily discharging these troops based on gender identity alone deprives the armed forces of skilled and experienced members at a time when recruiting and retention present ongoing challenges. Moreover, this policy stems from prejudice rather than evidence. Reputable studies have found minimal impact on military readiness and healthcare costs from open transgender service. The administration's claims of undermining unit cohesion or discipline are unsubstantiated. In reality, transgender troops have been serving openly with documented success under the current policy instituted in 2016. Maintaining an inclusive military that judges service members solely on their conduct and capabilities is essential for force readiness. Discriminating against skilled personnel based on gender identity is both unethical and detrimental to national security interests. I urge you to oppose this misguided policy and uphold core American values of equality and justice for all who honorably serve.