In December of 2026, the Selective Service System enforced an automatic registration for young men concerning the military draft. The 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) authorized $882.6 billion for national defense and an automatic draft. Beginning in 1917, the first national modern draft that accepted men ages 21-31, took place for World War 1 (WW1). In 1942, President Roosevelt lowered the draft age to 18 due to the fact that the United States needed more men to serve in World War 2 (WW2). The draft was then suspended in 1973 and resumed by President Carter when responding to the Soviets’ invasion of Afghanistan in 1980. Although now that President Donald Trump has signed the NDAA in 2026, how could this act impact society and men as a whole?
This change could bring the possibility of changing views throughout the American people and their view on the U.S. military. I interviewed students at Grand Ledge High School and posed the question: What three words do you think of when you hear the word ‘United States military’. Jackson Holloran, a sophomore at GLHS, takes a great interest in the military. Holloran is anticipating attending the United States Naval Academy once he graduates.
“I would say three words I’d use to describe the military are… Discipline. Freedom. Heart,” Jackson stated.
President Trump is well known for his undeniable patriotism, and while his administration could highlight this quality and promote the U.S. Armed Forces, displaying joining the force shows America’s strength, they could very well take the lead down a wrong path. Based on Trump’s nature and style of presidency, it’s very likely some Americans may question their freedom and the government’s involvement in a citizen’s day-to-day life.
Altogether, this policy change will affect how Americans respond to the call of duty and the government’s actions from here on out.
