Pete Hegseth Supports Trump’s Plan for Military COVID Vaccine Refusers

Indianapolis: So, Pete Hegseth, who’s Trump’s pick for secretary of defense, is making some big promises. He’s saying he’ll bring back troops who were kicked out for not getting the COVID vaccine. He’s talking about giving them back pay, their old ranks, and even an apology.

Hegseth mentioned that these service members were let go because of an “experimental vaccine.” He’s really pushing for them to be reinstated with everything they lost.

If he gets confirmed, he’ll be building on Trump’s earlier promises to rehire those who were discharged. Over 8,400 troops were separated after refusing the vaccine, which the Pentagon had mandated back in 2021.

The military thought the vaccine was key for keeping everyone ready and healthy. But in 2023, they dropped the mandate after Congress stepped in. Now, they’re not separating troops for not getting the shot anymore.

Most of the active-duty military is vaccinated, but there are still some who aren’t. Hegseth’s comments show that the new administration is serious about bringing back those who were let go.

This could hit the Marine Corps the hardest since they had the most discharges. Republicans have been saying these separations were unnecessary, especially with recruitment being tough right now. But the military stood by their decision, saying it was all about readiness and safety.