Military Analyst Criticizes McCain's Hidden Push for Women's Draft in Defense Legislation

Military analyst Elaine Donnelly has criticized Senator John McCain for secretly including a provision in the Senate's version of the annual defense bill that would require women to register for the draft. Donnelly expressed concern that this move could have significant implications for military readiness and gender equality. According to Donnelly, McCain's action was taken behind closed doors and could negatively impact both support for women in the military and national defense. Although Senator Mike Lee attempted to amend the bill to remove this draft requirement, his effort was defeated with only 7 votes in favor and 19 against. Notably, all Democratic members of the Senate Armed Services Committee supported the provision. The rationale for excluding women from the draft has diminished since December, when Secretary of Defense Ash Carter authorized women to serve in all combat roles. Since then, military leaders and some legislators have advocated for women to participate in the draft process. While the initial House proposal aimed to highlight the absurdity of drafting women, it was ultimately passed with a narrow margin. Donnelly emphasized that the Selective Service syste...