'Completely untrue': Donald Trump denies pushing for mandatory military service if reelected as US President
WASHINGTON, DC: Donald Trump has vehemently denied claims that he would push for mandatory military service if he wins reelection this year.
The former president labeled a Washington Post article on the issue "ridiculous," according to The Hill.
Donald Trump says Washington Post report is only a 'failed attempt to damage' him
In a post on Truth Social on Tuesday, June 11, Trump wrote, “The Fake News Washington Post came up with the ridiculous idea” that he will push for mandatory military service.
“The Story is completely untrue. In fact, I never even thought of that idea,” he continued.
“This is only a continuation of their EIGHT YEAR failed attempt to damage me with the Voters,” Trump added.
What is Donald Trump's stance on mandatory military service?
Trump has not publicly taken a stance on whether young Americans should be required to serve in the military.
Since 1973, the United States has not instituted the draft since 1973, and military service has remained voluntary.
The controversy stems from the Washington Post report that leans heavily on comments from Christopher Miller, who took over the Department during the final days of Trump's presidency.
He was appointed in November 2020 after Trump lost his reelection bid and fired Defense Secretary Mark Esper via social media.
Miller is “among a cluster of influential former administration officials and GOP lawmakers who have mused aloud about a national service mandate," as per the Washington Post report.
Christopher Miller suggested military mandate should be 'strongly considered'
According to the report, Miller suggested that mandatory military service should be "strongly considered."
“If we’re going to prepare for a great-power competition, it’s helpful to have a baseline understanding of the pool of potential military service members and their specific aptitudes prior," said Miller.
The article also quotes Sen JD Vance (R-Ohio), considered a potential running mate for Trump, who stated that a military requirement should ensure more Americans have "some skin in the game."
Donald Trump's campaign's response and media feud
The Washington Post article notes that they had contacted Trump's campaign regarding the story but "declined to address whether the former president supports mandatory military service.”
The former president's advisors have emphasized that staffing and policy positions will only be announced by Trump or "an authorized member” of his presidential reelection team.
This issue with the Washington Post is part of a long-standing feud between Trump and various media outlets as he claimed they aim at undermining his political prospects.
