Trump Reinstates Service Members Discharged for Refusing COVID-19 Vaccine

Retired U.S. Army bomb disposal expert and Florida Republican Congressman Brian Mast expressed his support for President Donald Trump's plan to reinstate service members who were discharged for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine. Mast described it as a "great day for patriots" and "a great day for our service members."

Mast highlighted that the issue extended beyond the military, affecting other government agencies as well. He claimed that conservatives who raised concerns about the vaccine were being "washed out" of government positions and educational institutions like West Point and the Naval Academy.

According to a White House fact sheet, only 43 of the more than 8,000 service members discharged by the Biden administration returned to service after the vaccine mandate was repealed in 2023. Trump's executive order aims to reinstate both active duty and reserve troops, restoring their rank and providing back pay and benefits.

Mast introduced legislation in 2023 to require the reinstatement of individuals who refused the vaccination. He expressed his enthusiasm for their return, stating that they "stood up for their causes, what they believed in, and they were rewarded for it."

Louisiana Republican Senator John Kennedy also praised Trump's decision, arguing that many younger people had concerns about the government-funded vaccine and did not trust the government's motives. He expressed his belief that Dr. Fauci may have been motivated by fear and a desire to avoid blame for the virus's origin.

The executive order fulfills a promise made by Trump during his inauguration address and is supported by newly-confirmed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.