Rob Schneider, a 62-year-old comedian and actor best known for films like The Waterboy and Grown Ups, is currently facing backlash after sharing his controversial views on US military service. He called for the restoration of the military draft for the nation's young people. Schneider proposed that every American at eighteen years of age must serve two years of military service, with options for overseas or domestic volunteer service.
He claimed that being a citizen of the United States gives unparalleled freedoms and opportunities that are the envy of the world, but these freedoms come with a cost. Schneider argued that shared service could unite young people regardless of race, creed, or religion in service to their country and each other. He noted that many nations require young citizens to serve their country, and until recently, the US did as well.
Schneider suggested a draft could discourage reckless wars by making Congress think twice before sending troops into non-vital conflicts. The US military draft was scrapped more than five decades ago. The US is currently involved in a conflict with Iran that has killed 13 American service members and wounded more than 300.
Schneider has never served in any kind of military outfit himself. Schneider later issued a follow-up statement, clarifying his position. A user named Jex 36 criticized Rob Schneider for advocating the draft without having served in the military himself.
A user named Sliced Rice criticized the draft as the opposite of freedom and only needed in a country that abuses its power.