Comedy actor Rob Schneider has suggested that the U.S. should reinstate conscription as the nation’s conflict with Iran rages on.
“We must once again recommit ourselves to one nation under God, indivisible,” The Hot Chick actor, 62, wrote in a post on X Friday.
“Therefore, we must restore the military draft for our nation’s young people. Each and every American, at 18 years of age, must serve two years of military service. They could also choose to serve part of that time overseas or in country in a volunteer capacity.”
Schneider, a civilian with no military service, said the “unparalleled freedoms and opportunities” of American citizenship “are the envy of the world,” but warned that they “do not come without a cost.”
He continued: “By protecting and preserving these Freedoms, young people, regardless of race, creed or religion will be united in service to their country and just as importantly, to each other. Many Nations around the world require their young citizens to serve their country. Until recently, our Nation did as well.
“This would serve many purposes in our society; We would have all of our young men and women put into a rigorous physical training course that they could use for the rest of their lives, we would always have a standing army ready at all times including for domestic problems like natural disasters.”
The U.S. ended mandatory military service in 1973 and transitioned to an all-volunteer force.
Men aged 18 to 25 are still required to register with the Selective Service System for potential future drafts, but no active conscription exists.
Trump has insisted that talks with Iran to end the war are progressing “very well,” after sending a “15-point action list” of demands via mediators.
However, the contents of the proposal have been kept private, and Iran disputes that discussions are even taking place.
Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day
New subscribers only. £9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled.
Try for free
ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.
Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day
New subscribers only. £9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled.
Try for free
ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.
Schneider’s politics have shifted significantly over the years — he switched parties from the Democrats to the Republicans in 2014, citing “the state of California” at the time.
During the 2024 U.S. presidential cycle, Schneider initially endorsed Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a fellow vaccine critic, before calling on Kennedy’s supporters to back Donald Trump after Kennedy suspended his campaign.
He has faced criticism for making anti-LGBT+ comments in his comedy and on social media.
Also in 2024, Schneider’s daughter — singer Elle King — publicly slammed her father for sending her to “fat camp” while she was growing up and distanced herself from his views.
Schneider issued a lengthy apology in response while speaking to conservative political commentator Tucker Carlson on his podcast.
“I just want to tell my daughter: I love you, and I wish I was the father in my 20s that you needed. I clearly wasn’t, and I hope you can forgive me for my shortcomings,” he said.
