On Point | Podcast How the Trump administration's defense policies are affecting women in service
May 12, 2025
Kyle-Ann Hunter, a Marine Corps combat veteran and founder of the Women, Peace and Security Initiative, joins national security reporter Steve Bainon to discuss the impact of current defense policies on women in the military. They delve into the steadfast participation of women in a recruiting crisis and the cancellation of key support programs. Personal stories highlight the challenges of gender integration in combat roles. The duo also debates the evolving standards of military fitness and the effects of Trump-era policies on female service members.
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Training Challenge Builds Warrior Ethos
- Major Hunter struggled initially with the obstacle course during officer candidate school.
- She had to train repeatedly, which built resilience and embodied the warrior ethos.
Combat Roles in Modern Warfare
- Combat in Iraq and Afghanistan featured blurred front lines and involved many women.
- The reality of modern warfare demands recognizing women's integral combat roles beyond traditional views.
Research Supports Women in Military
- Emotional rhetoric often obscures the proven effectiveness of women in the military.
- Rigorous research shows women meet high military standards and succeed in combat roles.
