Trump Plans to Reinstate Over 8,000 Discharged Troops for Vaccine Refusal

President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order reinstating over 8,000 U.S. service members who were discharged for refusing COVID-19 vaccinations between 2021 and 2023. The order will restore these individuals to their previous ranks and provide back pay and benefits, fulfilling a promise made by Trump during his campaign. Rep. Brian Mast hailed this decision as a victory for 'patriots' and criticized the previous administration for allegedly discriminating against conservative service members. Critics of the vaccine mandates raised concerns about personal freedoms and potential health risks associated with the vaccines. The reinstatement aims to bolster military readiness and address the impact of the previous mandate, which saw approximately 17,000 service members refuse vaccination. Newly appointed Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has echoed Trump's priorities in refocusing the military on its core mission.