Days Of Our Lives
Soap Stars Speak Out And Slam President Trump For Banning Transgender Individuals From Serving In Military
President Donald Trump via his Twitter account made a announcement that he is banning all trans people from serving in the military. In his series of tweets, Trump posted: “After consultation with my Generals and military experts, please be advised that the United States Government will not accept or allow, Transgender individuals to serve in any capacity in the U.S. Military. Our military must be focused on decisive and overwhelming….. our military must be focused on decisive and overwhelming victory and cannot be burdened with the tremendous medical costs and disruption that transgender in the military would entail.”
The sweeping policy change was met with surprise at the Pentagon, outrage from advocacy groups, and praise from social conservatives. It reverses the transformation of the military under President Barack Obama, whose administration announced last year that transgender people could serve openly in the military. Mr. Obama’s defense secretary, Ashton B. Carter, also opened all combat roles to women and appointed the first openly gay Army secretary.
Hollywood celebrities voices their disgust and disdain over the reversal. People took to their Twitter accounts referencing a post from the president in June of 2016 while he running against Hillary Clinton during the presidential election. In that tweet he related: “Thank you to the LGBT community! I will fight for you while Hillary brings in more people that will threaten your freedoms and beliefs.”
As we post this, many current and former soap stars are also letting their thoughts be known on Trump’s latest ban, and insult to the LGBTQ community and trans individuals who have been serving, or had hoped to serve for our country. Here is a sampling below.
Laura Wright (Carly GH) tweeted: “This man is a disgusting human being– I am ashamed and embarrassed.” She later added: “That’s exactly what this is BIGOTRY and it breaks my heart and terrifies me…”
Karla Mosley (Maya, B&B) tweeted: “No words for the feelings I have about 45’s announcement blocking Trans citizens from serving. So I’ll lean on the others below. #ShameOnUs”
Billy Flynn (Chad, DAYS) tweeted: “Make America old, white, homophobic, “great” again!” Should have been the slogan. The old are hanging on..but the young future is ours.” He later tweeted, “It’s their job to protect us…you foolish little goon!”
Greg Rikaart (Ex-Kevin, Y&R) posted: “A divisive half-man undermined our military &deprived Americans brave enough 2 fight 4freedom from doing so. Sad!#TransRightsareHumanRights”
Hunter King (Summer, Y&R) tweeted: “I stand with our trans community. Thank you to the 15,000 who are currently serving our country. We love and appreciate you and ur bravery!!”
John Wesley Shipp (Guiding Light, One Life to Live, Santa Barbara, As the World Turns) posted: “Through this agony in the USA which history will recall as our Dark Ages, I stand w/ my transgender sisters&brothers #LoveAlwaysTrumpsHate
So, do you side with some of your favorite soaps stars and oppose President Trump’s decision on banning Transgender individuals from the military? Without becoming nasty and respecting the opinions of your fellow posters, please comment below.
Good for them!
Trump is an idiot all the way!
As someone who normally stays out of the political arena on this sight, I will state this policy is wrong and not backed by factual information. Why is it okay to discriminate against trans citizens?
There’s no reason any willing and able-bodied person, regardless of their gender at birth — or now — should should be turned away from doing their part for our country.
I applaud these daytime stars for sticking up for those who are being treated as second-class citizens.
I appreciate the star support, but I sincerely hope no one is surprised by this. It’s just another crack in an already depraved pavement. I hope our LGBTQ citizens and heroes aren’t defeated, but rather even more emboldened by this latest insult. And since when is military policy decided by a tweet?
Laura Wright hit the nail on the head. Enough said.
Totally agree, summing The Trump up as “… a disgusting human being” is a very accurate statement. Looking forward to him tripping up enough to get impeached so our country can get back on a path of equality.
I must be reading this wrong. First of all it is NOT just his decision. He had a meeting with Generals as well as other personal from these Forces. He also did not say “No gay’s”, “No Lesbian’s”.The world is unfair to Transgender. We need to think before we hate the messenger. How many of them would get killed, or beaten up? I myself would hate that.If you think of a group like “Seal’s” and how tough they are. Their training alone is a killer.When being attacked they can’t stop to give anyone special treatment. I can see Transgender everywhere thinking this is unfair but for safety reasons I have to agree with the president.I live in Canada and if this was our P.M. decision I would stand with him. I find some American’s just wait for an excuse to hate their president. If he let them in and a few got killed oh my, I can just see the headlines.
You wouldn’t have to stand with him, because Justin Trudeau knows better.
J.T.is a wimp with no class,and all he’s done is take selfies, spend tax payers money, take vacations and make a fool of our country. Canada is so angry with him for his opened borders that there is a very good chance of him not getting in. He plans on making all the newbies he lets in Canadian citizens so they’ll vote for him.
Well, Hillary…..I have tons of family in Toronto, and believe you me, you’d be surprised how most feel about their Prime Minister—-worse than they did for his father, before him.
This is the man who paid ten million to an Islamic terrorist—-people are still in a daze, trying to understand the reasoning behind that ludicrous decision.
The problem is that no matter what Trump does or is told to do, everyone jumps on the band wagon……but, it was ok for Obama to have hushed tetes-a’-tetes with Russian delegates, promising flexibility to their proffed “deals” after the election…..or wiring and taping….
Or Hillary’s obstruction of justice, going after her husband’s “women” with a vengeance , or denouncing Bill’s out of wedlock child with an African American woman ( Danney Williams). How about her devotion and resoect for Robert Byrd? The most racist politician ever???? Oh, what about Hillary’s condemnation of gays? Yeah, she changed her tune about that out of convenience when running for the oval office.
Lest we forget….the Foundation, Bill’s “Russian” play-to-pay” speeches—ten million from the Saudis….the sale of our uranium to the Russians; the Iran deal, the eorst enemy on the planet, who is now in full nuclear armor???? And so on and do forth. It all gets swept under the rug.
No one, including Presidents, is perfect—-as I said, let us have a looong read on all our past prsidents. If Trump and “Company” are found guilty of anything, yes!!!!! Thry should pay the consequences….
As a matter of fact, I am glad that Muller has chosen all democrats to his judiciary committee ( albeit, unfairly)….perhaps many discoveries, hidden deep into the dirty muck, will be made.
Nikki, I think you’re being far too kind. I don’t for one minute believe that this “decision” had anything to do with Transgender safety. Nor did he make that claim himself. What it DOES have to with is distracting the media from the other scandal pots ready to boil over. Hopefully the other issues will retain center focus.
You maybe right soaphound but in this case when their fighting Isis who have already admitted hate for gays, beating , hanging them from roof tops etc. My son and my cousin are both gay and I would discourage both of them from joining & I don’t think it would be fair to expect the others to give special protection. JMO I also think your looking at the big picture which I didn’t think of but there are a lot of Democrat’s ready to pounce the moment this man makes a mistake. I don’t answer them. Now I have to go look at the big picture. Luv.
Soaphound & Hillary – you are so right. There are already transgenders serving in the military….as a matter of fact one was a navy seal. LW is correct – this is discrimination. In the late 40’s Truman desegregated the US Military. This is just another form of discrimination, and another shiny object to distract us from the corruption of his administration and their Russian connections. The Pentagon was blindsided by this, so I highly doubt the comment about “his” generals has any truth to it whatsoever. Even old white Conservative Orin Hatch was taken by surprise, stating that transgenders are born that way.
“If you think of a group like “Seal’s” and how tough they are. Their training alone is a killer.”
In fact, a member of Seal Team Six is transgender.
She served her country. Six time draft dodger 45 and his half-witted brood of non-service children have no business making up policy on the fly.
And he, in fact, did not consult with Senate Armed Forces Committee, the one chaired by Vietnam Veteran John McCain or the House Committee. When President Obama repealed Don’t Ask Don’t Tell he had the Armed services conduct a review and issue a report and he then sent it through Congress where it received bipartisan support.
BTW, this is meant to distract from the health care repeal. It’s a ploy he’s successfully used before.
When even John McCain, who opposes Marriage Equality, says the President is wrong, you can figure out the rest on your own.
A retired Navy SEAL Team 6 hero who is transgender had a message for President Donald Trump after he announced the US military would bar transgender people from serving.
“Let’s meet face to face and you tell me I’m not worthy,” Kristin Beck, a 20-year veteran of the Navy SEALs, told Business Insider on Wednesday. “Transgender doesn’t matter. Do your service.”
Beck said Trump’s abrupt change in policy could negatively affect many currently or wanting to serve in the military. The RAND Corporation estimated in 2016 that there were between 1,320 and 6,630 transgender people serving. Many of them just want to serve their country like everyone else, Beck said.
“Being transgender doesn’t affect anyone else,” Beck said. “We are liberty’s light. If you can’t defend that for everyone that’s an American citizen, that’s not right.”
Beck is not just your average service member. Born Christopher Beck, she served for 20 years in the Navy with SEAL Teams 1, 5, and, eventually, the elite 6. She deployed 13 times over two decades, including stints in Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan. She received the Bronze Star award for valor and the Purple Heart for wounds suffered in combat.
“I was defending individual liberty,” she said. “I defended for Republicans. I defended for Democrats. I defended for everyone.”
In a series of tweets, Trump said the decision was based on the costs of medical services that transgender service members could use. But “the money is negligible,” Beck said. “You’re talking about .000001% of the military budget.
“They care more about the airplane or the tank than they care about people,” Beck said. “They don’t care about people. They don’t care about human beings.”
When asked about potential problems with unit cohesion or war fighting, Beck said those were not issues that would arise from transgender service members, but from leadership.
“A very professional unit with great leadership wouldn’t have a problem,” Beck said. “I can have a Muslim serving right beside Jerry Falwell, and we’re not going to have a problem. It’s a leadership issue, not a transgender issue.”
Quite frankly, one can pretty much depend upon John McCain to say any Republican president is wrong about most things…betrayal against his own party and its leaders has always been his m.o, along with stabbing his so-called constituency in the back time and time again by failing to support a variety of issues held most dear by its base. That is just how he rolls, and it was never more clearly illustrated than his deplorable vote last evening when he gleefully sided with his buddies “across the aisle.” It’s no wonder he is the liberals’ favorite pet RINO.
But Shay, McCain many times went against the wishes of President Obama. To say he just goes against Republican presidents is just wrong. McCain said on the floor yesterday that the Senate and the Congress are not the president’s subordinates, rather, they are his equals. And this as it should be.
This “skinny bill” would have knocked millions upon millions off their own health care plan while making deep cuts in MediCaid.
McCain is to be lauded as a hero because he put country over party. It took courage and grit to do vote the way he did. Yes, he is a maverick.
Nikki…Just out of curiosity why would being transgender require any more “special treatment?”
Also, saw an interview with Mattis on the news today. When asked on the subject he said ” he doesn’t care who consenting adults sleep with.’
And from anything I’ve heard or read about Canada’s Prime Minister, Trudeau he would never make this kind of decision. What was his comment went putting women into his cabinet and why…” this is the 21st century” or something to this effect.
Hi Rose, Let me start with the “special treatment”. I had an uncle in the army. No special regiment but hard working/training just the same. Some of the stories we were told made me ill. There was no Transgender but there was two gay fellows. He said once everyone knew about it the group was divided into two. Those that supported them and those that didn’t. These two we’re threatened, had what they called jokes played on them Example they waited until they we’re asleep and put red nail polish on them, tied their underwear in knots, you only have so much time in the morning to get ready and they would be late. Now they could tell as one did and someone mysteriously peed in his morning coffee. They even went as far as planning to lose them on a hike. As I said they did tell on these fellows and the group that supported them to begin with had been asked to watch over them which they did but again it was not a combat mission and they we’re getting tired of having to keep an eye on them all the time. They did other things but I hate this cruel stuff. As 4 J.T. in Canada he did hire women in his cabinet but he has done nothing for Canada but take vacations, spend tax dollars, raise taxes, take away our freedom of speech “M103” and open our borders to everybody, not just refugees. I think these things will cost him the next election. BTW He is good at selfies.
PS to Nikki and Celia…Just want to add a balance to both of your comments. Celia, your Toronto family is entitled to their opinions, but from what I have read and seen in national and international news, they don’t speak for all Canadians. But it is understandable that you would accept their views since they are family.
But i have many Canadian friends who think just the opposite of your family and Nikki’s re their new Prime Minister. Many have expressed Trudeau as “a breath of fresh air” after the last guy. Maybe that’s why he won the election.
Hi Nikki…Understand you feelings about “no special treatment” based on the story your uncle to you. How awful. And not just confined to the military or Seals unfortunately. Not much different than general bullying we are hearing about in schools and social media. It will never cease to amaze me how cruel some, anywhere in the world, can be with their prejudices, etc.
But I would still rather opt for “special treatment money,” especially if it includes tolerance info/education/ management. Better this than sweeping these attitudes under the rug, or as others might say, kicking it down the road for someone else to solve.
It also really bothers me that in this case trans are singled out after passing all the physical/medical//raining requirements. It makes trans (or gays, women, racail, etc.), seem like they are at fault, not the attitude. And all they wanted to do is serve on an equal basis.
As for how we think about Justin…we will just have to agree to disagree. We see him totally different, just like another person who will go unnamed. In fact some of the things you find objectionable about Trudeau could be said about the president, plus more.
@Nikki…I appreciate and concur with your insightful take on both this nation’s and Canada’s current political landscapes. Oddly enough, just this past week, I happened upon a few of your fellow countrymen who totally shared your not very flattering estimation of the PM when Trudeau’s name came up in conversation. In fact, they were particularly baffled and at odds with Rolling Stone’s fawning cover story about him, and couldn’t understand why anyone here would want him running the US…(Me neither…we finally just got rid of a carbon copy of JT and his similarly-oriented policies, attitude and self-serving behavior, so for me the true “breath of fresh air” is our new president—who I support wholeheartedly!) Of course, there are those who express the same sort of inexplicable affection and longing for France’s recently-elected boy leader….just another underwhelming character who follows like trains of thought for which I harbor no love either personally or politically.
@ Nikki.
Others have already stated that we’ve already had transgendered protecting us in the military, they just were not originally doing it openly.
With respect to the Commander-in-Chief claiming to have had a meeting with Generals, that, like much of what comes out of his mouth or his tweets, does not appear to be true. Reports are that the DOD as well as the different branches of the military were taken by surprise which they wouldn’t be if he had met with them. Personally I think he did it to distract attention from some of his other problems.
The thought that we have to kick willing and able bodied people out of serving our nation so that they won’t get hurt by others is pretty insulting. Similar arguments were made to keep gays out of openly serving and even to have a racially integrated military. If other people are acting poorly you don’t correct the issue by victimizing people who are already being mistreated by others. You correct it by addressing it with the bad apples who are doing the mistreating.
Still, no matter how you feel about transgender members serving in the military, you have to admit that to fire thousands of people via Twitter whose only crime has been to protect our country while being true to themselves is pretty low.
Wow Nikki, you pretty much took the words right out of my mouth!
There is so much “deeper reasoning” as to why these decisions are made, yes even if it does at the very least “at the forefront” of things, seem to “signal out” any materialistic label out their in this pretty scary and harrowing Life and world we all live in.
People automatically jumping to the reason is because “Well screw Trump, He is just being a homophobe or an anti-Trans persona” just because he decides to “ban” them from the military. It is not all meant to be put upon as probably and / or really any of which ways of so-called “Personal Attacks” against people with whom first and foremost deep down inside don’t even have any sort of “love” and “respect” and “un-bigotry” for their very own selves.
I really don’t care what any of these Hollywood “stars” think about ANYTHING.
I agree. Every time I turn the T.V. on their still marching and protesting. Weather D.T. is a good pres. or bad it’s over for a few years. Why not just ride the storm and vote him out next term.
Then why click and comment, if you don’t care?
They have a right to voice their opinions just as much the rest of us.
And you came to this site to read about the soaps and its actors, right?
THANK YOU……
Michael, I’m a big fan of all that you do. But with respect, can we possibly stick to soap related news on this site? Any story to do with politics quickly turns into a lot of personal attacks and name calling on here, just like this post will, if it hasn’t already, and I personally don’t think this is the place for that. I come here as an escape, to read and discuss my favorite soaps with my fellow viewers, not discuss politics.
I second that, Dan.
I’m with you Dan.
Don’t read this page or take part in the discussion- I mean come on. This is his site and there is no shortage of articles and interviews and new ones posted several times a day. So how is this page getting in the way of any of anything and who is to decide what is appropriate content? Michael Fairman is the editor of this newspaper, and I appreciate this article and the discussion. I don’t understand taking the time to come onto the page and commenting against it-he has not taken anything away-only added- free to partake or pass.
I agree, my friend….however, Dan, I am grateful, MF is keeping it separate, albeit, the article does incite and fire people up.
You are right, now that I think about it. I am so sick of the Trump bashing. Equating him to Castro? And,some to Hitler.
Perhaps we should all pick up a copy of biographies on these well-known criminals of humanity.
So far, I have not heard of Trump burning people ( including babies), or starving them to death and throwing the remains in shallow ditches. To me? That is an insult to the Holocaust, and those innocents who were tortured at the hands of those monsters.
Time to go to the library…….a good read on all past American Presidents will open many eyes, as well.
Why is it that people cannot discuss and give opinions without the foul words?
Amen, CeeCee,….and might I say in addition to actually reading up on the US presidency and its very mixed cast of past characters who inhabited the office, a basic primer on political science is also in order. It always makes me cringe when there is a failure to grasp the basic tenets of various philosophies and how they directly relate to the ideals expressed by America’s major political parties. For example, the very dictators that some love to proffer as an unflattering comparison to our current president were, in fact, communists/socialists whose agendas bore a far greater resemblance to the policies of the former administration than anything Donald Trump is currently proposing and implementing.
@Shay.
Hey, there,
As I just said to Nikki, I minored in Political Science….I don’t know much, but I have a keen understanding of ‘what-up?”.
You know my age…..have only voted a few times, but even in those few times, In the end, I was never more clearer for whom to vote. It was a very last-minute decision for me, Shay.
Hey CeeCee, always valuable insight from you. Like you, I also minored in Political Science. And case it point to what I was referring to, just read through some of the comments to this story to see exactly what I was talking about. Like every political story that’s been posted on here in the past, it devolves into attacks and incendiary remarks from people on all sides of he political spectrum. Nothing is gained from it, except people bringing out the worst in themselves. It’s unfortunate, really.
And to your point, I think the whole comparing politicians to brutal, murdering dictators like Hitler and Castro thing is way overdone and overplayed. It’s like the new default response when you don’t like a President, compare them to Hitler. It was overdone when people compared Obama to Hitler, it’s overdone now with Trump, it will be overdone with the next president and so on, as the never ending cycle continues.
Personally, I didn’t vote for Trump and I have a very low opinion of him. But I’m able to have respectful, reasonable, articulate discussions with people about the issues and why I feel the way I do, as I know you are. Unfortunately, most people can’t seem to do that anymore, without resorting to the lowest common denominator, personal attacks and name calling that does nothing to advance anyone’s opinions or beliefs. No one sits down and talks anymore, everything is attack, attack, attack, with as much negativity, hatred, and vitriol as possible. And that goes for conservatives, liberals, moderates, independents, you name it. No one is immune.
That’s the way I see it, anyway. Hope you have a great night!
@Shay.
HaHa, what a BIG no-no!!!! More clear, not clearer.
By the by, I get the feeling that MF’s new site will be all about interviews with the ‘soapsters’.
If I’m right, that should prove very interesting….first up: Michelle Stafford. LOL. How does that grab you?? HaHa.
You could be right, CeeCeeGirl! As for your suggestion of topic for the inaugural edition of MFSoaps upcoming website reveal???? No comment! (Yeah, that’s the best I can do if I am going to behave myself….LOL.) Personally, I’m hoping for all sorts of wonderful surprises, although I’m feeling doubtful that some of the changes many had suggested will come to pass as part of the “new and improved” version. But, we can always dream!!!! By the way, great posts here…you always state your opinions so eloquently, even those with which I don’t necessarily agree! They still make for interesting and thought-provoking reading!
I myself have been a “guilty” party in this kind of thing. Because when I’m stating my opinions, and people read them, in order for them to understand what I’m even putting out there, all of the words I put out there and say HAVE to have some great importance and / or meaning , so-to-say.
@GaysOfOurLives__5683.
Hey, GOOL,
Love the moniker!!!!! Inventive. Yes, agreed; I know exactly what you mean. There are many posts which are not backed by facts, which are not interesting, which show there is no understanding of politics, ideologies of fifferent nations, democracy….but, they get posted anyway because I, personally, consider them teacher’s pets. Then, there are posts which are well written, to the point, informative with an educated point of view, but do not get posted. Why? It does not fit the “form”?
I think it depends who the moderator is; in accordance with his/her personal view.
Now, depending on whom is moderating this post?….. we shall see if it gets posted. I have been slowly decreasing my posting because of it…
Later….significant post. Thanks for replying to my inbox.
I applaud Michael Fairman for this. It is one article among many, many others and clear from the headline what the article is about. If not wanting to venture into this area, one is free to skip to the next article. Soaps have always tackled controversial issues- as this issue most certainly is. I enjoy reading these and learning of other views and how people feel-whether I agree or not and appreciate the opportunity for us to discuss these matters and be civil and respectful to each other. Thanks, MF.
Absolutely, Maureen….I, too, enjoy reading different views and perspectives….but, only from those with an open mind and are up to par with the human struggle…..not just anyone who repeats rhetorical propaganda.
Many of these “stars” should read the Marxist Manifesto. Amazing how similar their views are!!!!
@Maureen
#Ditto hats off to you, that is for sure!
I could not have ever said what you said, any better!
I agree with you completely and wholeheartedly!
If I had my own website, I would feel free to post any topic I find of interest or importance. We are guests, here, after all. If not a topic that pleases, no shortage or others here where one can surely find something that pleases. I am glad for this and other current event topics where we are given a chance to share our feelings or thoughts and perhaps get to know one another better- if indeed that is possible on the internet. Seems to be a good discussion so far, and without personal attacks. I am against this ban, but I am also open to hearing what thought was actually put into it and from those that support it. I am always open to learning, and that is one thing we surely can do on the internet.
Do you read the articles about shows you don’t watch or actors you are not interested in? I don’t. From the responses on the page so far, plenty of people have an interest in the subject and in commenting about it.
You also have your own options Dan, which one of them would happen to include not clicking on an article that has any political wording on the title. You have the option of not reading.
I think Michael did this because it DOES have to do with soaps, in the fact that the soap stars and soap actors and soap actresses that play and / or portray the characters we love to watch and follow on all of our shows and soap operas, happen to have some say with some real life stuff that does coincide with some of the storylines going on right now on #TheBoldAndTheBeautiful #B&B.
I, personally, do not agree with this decision. Every human being has the right to serve in the military, regardless of race, faith, color, gender or otherwise. But, I would not jump and go for the jugular, as seen here.
This ‘order’ , most likely, took long thought and did not come easy. I know Trump is more open-minded than that. He was advised and he followed through. Trump’s weakness is that he is not a politician. Frankly, I love that fact.
I do not agree with the decision, but, by the same token, I am not comfortable with these soap “stars”, who think they know what’s what and feel entitled to throw shade on anyone who does not fit the Hollywood bill. Unfortunately, those ‘stars’ who pull for Trump and his administration, do not speak up because they will be ‘stoned’ by the louder voices. We all know that.
Everyone has the right to speak, but no name calling. Please have a little respect.
We are all aware that there are cynics in our world, including in the military. There are those who are not up to par with “transgendering”—–blinders are worn, and minds are closed to anything which they consider revolutionary. It is too new and people are not yet ready. Backward mentality is still in full swing. They just do not understand and fear the unfamiliar. Let’s face it, there are those who steadfastly refuse to acknowledge mixed marriages . Why are we so surprised about this? We should anticipate the reaction.
There is also the implication and possibility that the “transgender individuals” may be given a hard time—even be faced with violence, within and among the military itself. We don’t know. And, we won’t until after the fact. Safety could be an issue. We need to look at all aspects….as I am sure Trump and his advisors did.
Yes, there are transgenders already in the military, from what I understand. So, perhaps, there is evidence of intolerance and unacceptance. We are not privy to any of this stuff.
I doubt the Presidrnt came to this decision all on his own. Probably discussion after discussion….the WH only discloses what it wants to disclose.
Sadly, we have a long time to go, and some will never embrace transgenders, as they do not gays.
It’s a heartbreaking reality, really, for these human beings, through no fault of their own, are shamed and pay the price for the world’s ignorance and bigotry.
Kudos to Michael Fairman for dedicating a site on this subject, preventing ‘talks’ on the soap sites—-I truly appreciate that, which only tells me MF is sensitive to his audience and our feelings. Admirable.
Correction: easily, not easy.
You know, Celia, even though I also disagree with the decision (if it can even be called that), I found the name calling disturbing too. One of the things that even non-Obama fans admired was that he never sunk to that level. The fact that Trump does it is bad enough. Hollywood and the rest of us need to rise above that. One’s speech at home in private is one thing but public forums should have some dignity. Just my opinion.
I agree with everything you said Celia but I can’t stand when these soap stars or Hollywood think they run the world and everyone will follow them. I myself have turned against so many of them & this Russia thing is just sickening. I swear I think half of them are bored.
First, it’s called freedom of speech, which 45 would like to do away with in regard to everyone, but his own tweeting self. Second, soap stars are people too with voices and wish to be heard, just like Celia, Soaphound, and Nikki. Third, 45 is the one who typically leads with vulgar, angry, ugly, lying words. Fourth, if you want to lie down and get screwed for 4 years without voicing your opinion or letting the world know you are angry then you are behaving as ignorantly and as cowardly as those in Nazi Germany. And fifth, all politics aside, if you agree with 45 and any of his policies or statements and believe they are just, moral, and American, then as they say in the south, bless your heart.
Dont forget those music stars who also dont have a touch of reality! Springsteen, Streisand, Perry, ect. I wouldnt attend their concert even if they were playing in my backyard!
This isn’t like picking sides for a sports team. You stand up for human rights of ALL individuals or you don’t. You’re bigoted and prejudiced and intolerant toward groups that are not like you, or you’re not. You believe in helping people, or you don’t. You’re willing to stand up, or your not. Some issues can be grey, but with our current president, I think you HAVE to pick a side. That’s said, let’s also give some credit and acknowledgement to those soap actors that have been taking a stand for MONTHS, sometimes everyday on a variety of issues affecting women, immigrants, Mexicans, African Americans, people with disabilities, LGBT, Muslims, etc. People like Nancy Lee Grahn, Lisa Locicero, Ian Buchanan, Wally Kurth, Crystal Chappell, Rena Sofer, Kimberly McCullough…and probably many more that I’m missing. I see tweets from these actors almost everyday advocating for tolerance, equal rights, and condemning hate. I am absolutely against the president’s “ban” on transgender individuals in the military, but it’s just the latest group on his list that he’s attacking. We all have issues that are closer to our hearts than others, but I really think we need to be offended and speak out on behalf of everyone! Love all. 🙂
I could not have said this any better than you did Elle! Thank you for your wise words.
Completely agree. Great post.
Pretty well said, thanks for sharing! ☺
Do you watch Days? I haven’t seen your name. Hope to see you there.
@Celia
Yes I do watch Days of Our Lives on the occasion. I folllow it and the storylines throughout social media a lot these days . I love all four remaining Daytime Television SoapOperas, it’s hard to keep watch of each one religiously like I wish I could do. Wish there was much more time in a day for these reasons alone. Lol. I have never posted on another thread before or article before other than this one so this is my first one I have gotten really involved in commenting wise and with interacting with all of you amazing guys and gals on this here soap opera website. I have been following and reading Michael Fairmam’s website and Twitter page and Facebook Page though for a good 5 to maybe 6 years or so
I am just forewarning that this particular comment of mine is going to be a bit along the lines of off of the topic of this article, in a sense….
So, yeah…
I also happen to be a writer myself of three LGBTQS-themed soap operas of my own. And one LGBTQS-themed movie.
I really wish that there was a way I could share some of my soap opera writing stuff with anyone who’d be interested. I don’t know if there is a way where we are allowed to exchange email addresses or something for this? Through here? .
This news has continued to kill my faith in human kind. Donald Trump is the worst thing to happen to this country since 9/11. I am so tired of watching ABC News with David Muir and AC360 and feeling helpless and hopeless.
Most of my thoughts have been anger toward several gay Republicans that drank Trump’s Kool-Aid and believed he would not make any significant changes that Obama implemented during two administrations. Well, today, I wonder how those same defenders are feeling. Betrayed?
My biggest fear is that if one day this man gets assassinated, we will have become a country that will celebrate in the streets, much like Castro’d death. The lies concerning the Russians, grabbing female body parts (wonder if Billy Bush is bitter that he got fired and DT goes on to win the presidency), his morale busters with Jeff Sessions, his lack of not acknowledging June as Gay Pride Month in the USA, his lack of focus on Flint Michigan water crisis, his failed attempts with healthcare, the Boys Scouts clown show. Damn this list just keeps getting worse.
I applaud all of the daytime community for making bold statements about today’s ruling. We need to stop living in fear that we are going to hurt someone’s feelings by speaking up and defending our country against this piece of…work.
Thank you, Michael for bringing attention to this topic.
/
I fought next to/with a Transgender for 3 months, I totally trusted him with my life.
I would not have known nor cared, but he felt the need to tell me, he said ‘incase’..
I saw a Soldier not a man or woman..
No matter how much I hope and pray that this President will grow into one who respects and understands the Constitution, separation of powers, role of a free press, responsibilities as the leader of the free world, or demonstrates even the most basic regard for the truth, wI must now accept that President Trump will never become that man, sigh ..
Thank you for your service su0000!
Thank you for your service and sacrifice to our country Su! And thank you for sharing your story with us as well.
Great post, su. And, yes, thank you for your service.
Thank you very much for you service.
Thank you for sharing.
Your opinion carries more weight than ANY on these boards.
Especially more than those with lame anecdotal evidence!
To Mention.
No matter if man, woman, transgender;
All live by the creed–
Soldier’s Creed ;
I am an American Soldier.
I am a warrior and a member of a team.
I serve the people of the United States, and live the Army Values.
I will always place the mission first.
I will never accept defeat.
I will never quit.
I will never leave a fallen comrade.
I am disciplined, physically and mentally tough, trained and proficient in my warrior tasks and drills.
I always maintain my arms, my equipment and myself.
I am an expert and I am a professional.
I stand ready to deploy, engage, and destroy, the enemies of the United States of America in close combat.
I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life.
I am an American Soldier.
Transgenders are Proud Soldiers ,,
They are guardian of freedom and the American way of life.
I have never been more shamed and embarrassed for my country as I am today..
Su
I value your educated opinion more than anyone speaking for the current administration.
Thank you again for your service and your comments here on this site.
hi Steve-
It was my pleasure, thank you..
I’m sorry, I rarely mention I was military, but I was riled mad..
I’m straight female and I know what its like to be in what some men consider their world the military as theirs, and as a female, gay or transgender, I related..
All humans are equally qualified to serve.
No matter if man, woman, transgender or religion, all soldiers will do everything in their power to make sure their troop/you will live for the next day and make it back home to their loved ones. The person that has your six will die for you transgender or not.
Trump, he doesn’t understand ”solider” ..
And when a person gives up their home life, yes transgenders, and their way of a comfy life to Volunteer to serve their country and go into eastern war, no matter who they are they deserve great medical care whatever it entails, our soldiers are willing to die for America’s way of life Democracy our freedoms (freedom of the press;) and medical care during and after should not be an issue, ever.
(( I do not quite believe that medical is the main issue with Trump and transgenders in the military, it makes little sense as it’s a minimal expense of the huge military budget))
Su..Thank you for your well spoken thoughts on the value of everyone who have chosen to serve, whether military, ER’s, doctors, nurses, police, firefighters, etc. Think of how many of us are able to be writing on MF, any where else, or even tweet, if not for their choices of careers. Including the president and his family. You never know, because we don’t ask before we accept anyone’s help.
I will refrain from other comments I can make on the newest “presidental” decision. I will try to abide with MF’s request to be non-political, easier said than done when you see this announcement from him on-high.
P.S…Makes you wonder where whoever makes the military rules about gender, or other politicians would allow them to go to the bathroom…male only, female only, side of the road, next to a tree, squat; hold it?
Excellent posts, Rose!
Abruzzfan…Thanks for your comment to me. Gotta admit, it was welcome after yesterdays disasters…Mexican earthquake, hurricane Maria, and Trump at the United Nations.
I salute you, Miss Suoo–well said.
You can be my wingman anytime ( I know, I know, I can be yours. Yes, I have memorized the dialogue from Top Gun).
Donald Trump dodged the draft four times due to heel spurs, a calcium build up in the feet with which pregnant women are often afflicted.
How would this um, person, like it if the military banned men with tiny hands? He’d be flapping those tiny hands all over the place like a crazed Tyrannosaurus Rex. This latest stunt was so bad it even provoked Laura Wright to show her outrage on social media. As you might know, Wright usually avoids politics on social media so this is a big deal that she is speaking out.
So banning Trans from the military is the latest entry on the laundry list of crimes and misdemeanors including but not limited to: an assault on healthcare, an assault on voting rights, an assault on the environment and an assault on education. I read various newspapers (not online, my dog lives for fetching the morning paper) and one can get whiplash trying to keep up with the assaults on our freedom and democracy.
I am a patriot, and because I am a patriot I will speak out against the atrocities being committed by our present administration.
Patriotism should come before political affiliation.
Thank you for your service, SUOO.
PS. Rose, I think Fairman was only admonishing folks who were going off topic and engaging in name calling. Since this blog piece involves soap stars’ reaction to the president’s latest decision, it’s fine if we discuss politics here. I think we can prove to Mr Fairman that we can play nice when disagreeing with each other.
I have faith in us!
Hey Harry (and Rose)
Great posts by both of you…and I left you guys a combined message on the other page in case you were wondering about “Mark.” So frustrating being unable to communicate with people you’ve come to like other than here.
I’m glad you have faith, Harry. Encouraging…
Hey Harry! You are the MAN!!! Great posts!
Bless you, Su0000…
Bless you, too, James, for your open heart and sincerity. You say what you feel without insults, and fawning.
I want to hear what Kimberlin Brown has to say on the subject.
*crickets*
Ha ha! Snap! That was very funny, Days.
Singling an actor or actress out for their political views is a witch hunt. Many conservative actors & actresses find themselves not being able to find employment because they are the minority.
Well, I think Days was kidding and Kimberlin Brown is working right now so there’s that.
Well if she was kidding that’s a relief. And yes Kimberlin Brown is working and hats off to the Bold and the Beautiful for employing her.
Who are these actors?
Antonion Sabato Jr? I think it has more to do with his tepid on-screen presence and lack of acting abilities.
And you can be conservative AND value human rights of all. They’re not mutually exclusive.
In the original post 4 ever days was referring to Kimberlin Brown.
I feel for transgendered people who planned on retiring from the military. Their lives are forever altered by a hateful tweet.
Trump is a disaster and he is totally wrong to try and ban transgender troops from our military, in which he never served by the way. I don’t believe this ban will stand as I believe it to be unconstitutional. The ban is disgraceful and was likely Pence’s idea. Trump sees it as a distraction from Russia and health care and as satisfying his right-wing base. Another controversial tweet which shows that Trump is unqualified to be Commander and Chief of our Armed Forces. CiC’s don’t give orders via Twitter so it isn’t official policy as of yet.
All of the military friends I have talked too are thrilled by this. This is the military it is not about inclusion or a social program . This is life or death not an experiment . it is also my understanding this is not about President Trump being a bigot it was a direct request from General Mattis
Marc, do they feel the same way about women and gays? I want to know. I realize war and combat is life and death and do not take that lightly at all. What have been the experiences of your military friends- I would like to hear from them and learn.
What’s the age of your friends? Statistically speaking, Millennials and Gen Xers overwhelmingly support full equality for our LGBTQ family and friends. The numbers reverse as the age of the group increases. I know three current, active service members (two navy, one air force) and they’ve been tweeting support to the LGBTQ community and retweeting other service member support.
I’m Gen X and I don’t know anyone of my generation opposed to full equality. Cranky Grampies will whine all they want, but as that herd thins and fades in to their graves rest assured the successor generations will move differently. My sainted Step Dad (career infantry, three tours in Vietnam) has been unequivocal in his support of LGBTQ service members.
As Barry Goldwater opined on gays in the military: I don’t care if you don’t think Straight, I care if you shoot straight. I’m pretty sure Barry Goldwater was a conservative.
FYI….I’m a GenXer who is hugely pro-military and I support this ban for the reasons I listed below in my post to Nikki…But you are correct that Barry Goldwater WAS a conservative!…For most of his life, in fact…he was an absolute icon of the Right. However, in his later career (mid-70’s on….) he expressed disapproval for a number of social policies favored by many prominent Republicans (like Ronald Reagan…) and began leaning more and more libertarian on a myriad of issues. Sadly, in the 1990’s, he also suffered a massive stroke and was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in his final years, so I take whatever he said during that time period with a grain of salt. I also believe his reason for supporting gays serving in the military was probably based more upon his personal perspective than his prior professional one, given his own grandson is gay. Having said that, I still find the man and his role in reinvigorating the conservative movement in America absolutely fascinating!
Marc…I saw an interview with Mattis this morning in which he said ” he didn’t really care who consenting adults go to bed with.”
Even though I don’t think it was Mattis’ decision, his reply shows he doesn’t get it. Transgender is a gender identification of oneself. It has nothing to do with who you sleep with or who you are attracted to sexually.
General Mattis was surprised by this tweet. Like all of 45’s tweet it is based off his disgusting way of trying to obscure the attention to his collusion with Russia and his attempt to throw up to 30 million off healthcare.
Exactly– if you don’t want a crowd of people see you drown a bag of kittens, knock over a hornet’s nest and watch them scramble — — everyone knows if such a ban was put into place it would be challenged in court and overturned- perhaps if the media stopped acting like Chicken Little over every tweet he makes, and focus on finding the real dirt they might get somewhere. 45 knows and probably enjoys getting everyone riled up– it feeds his ego– and media plays right into his ego trip.
I will second you on that notion, Marc! I’ve long had friends who have served or are currently active in the military, and they all share this opinion. Given they have lived with the immense challenges and mixed-at-best consequences of various forms of social experimentation within their ranks throughout their distinguished careers, I defer to their views on this matter. I really don’t think that the complexities of this issue are something that civilians who have never served in any branch of the military should be debated since they have not marched in the boots of a soldier and thus, cannot understand how these policies can negatively affect their lives and the fitness of forces to fight the good fight on behalf of ALL Americans.
Social experimentation?
Having able-bodied do work they are perfectly qualified to do does not equate ‘social experimentation’.
These so-called ‘immense challenges’ are caused by their limited worldview, their lack of knowledge and empathy.
If anything transphobia is the problem, Shay, and not transgender folks.
You wanna be pro-military? Combait LGBT-related phobia, so that these ‘immense challenges’ can be overcome with education, so that more people can serve, and so that more people can protect American freedom.
#45 — his name will not be uttered from MY mouth — is disgusting, vile and cowardly. He doesn’t know what serving in the military is about. He never served. In fact he did dodge the draft. Let’s face it, #45 wasn’t the only deciding factor… I am more than certain that Mr Pence had a great deal to do with this decision. The generals didn’t have anything to do with it. Pence hates the LGBTQ community. He wants a closet for every person who lives differently than he does. He is just as vile as #45. Take your religious prejudice, your ignorance and your filthy lying mouths and support our troops — ALL OF THEM! The transgender community has just as much courage and energy to devote to their country as any one else does. Why does it always come down to genitalia? Be you a male or female nothing you are born with affects your ability to serve your country. I am glad the Daytime actors are speaking out against the behavior our “leaders” have put on display. I am embarrassed to be an American right now. He has brought out the worst of society. All in seven months in the White House. Please get him out quickly. My Transgender friends….stand strong. Head high. For those of you serving my country I bow to you in gratitude. I would not be free if it weren’t for your exemplary actions.
Thank you, Mateo. I applaud and echo your sentiments…
Beautifully expressed, Mateo. Thank you.
“Honor and Beauty in the Owner’s Arms are Weakly Fortress’d in a World of Harms.”
William Shakespeare
Mateo: Your view is shared, respected and applauded by many. Well said!
Shocked, saddened, surprised. Whatever one’s feelings are towards the LGBTQ communtiy- these are people- human beings. I believe today is the 59th anniversary of the order to de-segregate blacks in the military. I can’t even write concisely about this as I am dumbfounded. The army alone has 300 million dollars budgeted for recruitment and retention bonuses. Trump-standing up for the LGBTQ community-those were his words. I liked some of the issues he ran on. I am liking what is going on less and less-and what an immediate way to take minds of his trashing of Sessions and all the investigations plaguing his 6 month-old presidency.
I can’t imagine any LGBTQ wanting to join the military- the prejudice and bullying- just look at all the straight women who have been sexually harassed and raped and then their lives made worse if they dared to report the atrocities.
If any person wants to serve our country, and goes through whatever screening procedures are in place-and is deemed physically and mentally able to serve- I say they should be able to and applauded for their willingness to serve. I think non-citizens who want to serve should be able to as well and that in return, citizenship most certainly granted to those serving honorably. I don’t see why adjustments can’t be made to provide for disabled-maybe there are I am not aware- in non-combat. Also, with huge prison population we have-which continues to grow and these people DO get released and often have no viable hopes for a decent life or job- seems the chance to serve the country and get a second chance would be in everyone’s best interest.
Any expenses medically for trans military- well, we have hundreds of millions budgeted to recruit and retain so I think a pittance. I don’t have all the answers. Never claimed to. Being trans is a hard path for anyone to walk. Many have and are serving or have served honorably. Is this just the start? Are gay military next? I am also reading many straight military agreeing with the decision and some have made some good points- what about that? Should morale and cohesion and all the military terms I am not versed in be taken into consideration? I am seeking answers, not condemnation.
Would you change your mind Maureen if he lets them in and they continue the war against Isis and one of them get captured. They get torched, gang raped over & over again then they kill them in the worst ways possible. D.T. was also put down for his close borders but look at France/Italy/Sweden.Germany & others. That could be the USA right now if he didn’t do it. I certainly don’t have the answers but I do know reading all these comments are about “lets bash Trump” and not about Transgender at all.
If the concern was about the hypothetical situation you mentioned, he could just have had restrictions on combat/ front line duty. He banned trans citizens from serving in any aspect of the military.
No. ALL the comments are NOT about bashing Trump. Try reading ALL of them with an open mind before commenting. BTW Your comment is what’s wrong with the conservative way of thinking: ANYONE in the military and be captured and tortured by ISIS, why are transgendered people being singled OUT as being more subject to such capture/torture? Logically it just doesn’t make sense and sounds more like a ‘prejudiced’ excuse.
My post should read: Anyone in the military could be captured and tortured by ISIS… not just transgendered people. Otherwise I stand by my post and NONE of my posts (among many posted by others) bashed Donald Trump. Period.
At this point, Nikki, it’s really hard to discuss the POTUS objectively without looking like we are “bashing” Trump. His administration is a chaotic nightmare as he attempts to establish a Banana Republic. Right now, he faces the impending dawn of the “Saturday massacre” as surely more heads will roll as he engages in more cover up activity. And ask yourself this question: If Trump has nothing to hide then why is he hysterically overly defensive, engaging in cover-ups and firing his loyal subjects right and left? He has broken all promises to his base and he has drained the swamp and replaced those creatures with alligators.
He is in way over-his-head–that’s just a fact. Even the Republicans know this to be true as they scramble to figure out what to do with this unhinged, mentally unwell president. The worst thing is that after he either resigns and/oris impeached and forced out of office, his lasting legacy might be that he has set the bar so incredibly low. After he is forced out of office every candidate for the office of presidency will be met with this criteria,”Well, at least she/he is better than Trump.” That’s akin to saying,” Well at least a D is better than an F. Because this presidency is en epic failure unlike one we have never seen before. You must know this!
If you are going to continue to support this wannabe-dictator -orange-clown who likes to surround himself with generals (he calls them “my generals”) then you are going to have to grow a thicker skin because his approval rating has reached an historical low of 36%.
I realize it’s getting harder and harder to defend the indefensible but maybe, just maybe, you need to take a look at the hard core facts, take a deep breath and realize you’ve made a terrible mistake.
Nikki, if a person makes bigoted comments on a repeated, regular basis, and worse, performs bigoted actions and brags about them, then that makes him a bigot.
Merely commenting on what he does, does not equate ‘name-calling’.
Nicely balanced, Maureen. Thank you.
@Harry – bravo!!! You da’ bomb!!!
As an out and proud gay man (30 years out), I cannot say with 100% certainty that I completely understand what being transgender is all about or what a transgender man and woman goes through. Having said that, I will stand up to the discrimination that trans men and women go through on a daily basis. I am appalled at this shift in policy that 45 has done. I am embarrassed as a citizen of this country and ashamed as well. 45 is not nor will ever be my president. He is a complete joke and embarrassment to this country and has made our country the laughingstock of the entire world. All people who live in this country deserve to be free and respected for who they are and not be treated with derision and disgust.
We are all a part of the human race and we all should let our true colors shine through instead of having our colors stymied!
Thank you, Michael. I applaud and echo your sentiments…
Well Michael, if Trump made America a “Complete Laughingstock”, they were already laughing when your buddy Bill left his “Presidential Seal” on Ms. Lewinsky’s skirt!
Thank you for that bit of levity, Timmmbo!
Did I miss something? Michael expressed his displeasure with the current president. Many republicans have the same opinion as Michael (i.e. George Will, Peggy Noonan).
Oh Timmm your so right!
@Timmm my sentiments exactly! Just because past Presidents didn’t know how to “unhide” themselves and the rest of the world around them as a whole, does not mean that this really crapstorm of a life did not take place during presidencies besides what is NOW Trump’s.
If anybody considered Clinton’s reign (with his huge surplus left for Bush, low gas prices, generally stable times, little unemployment) as a laughing stock, then they are probably losing their lungs with laughter at the complete bizarre show that is TrumpTown right now.
Sorry. You don’t get to finger wag at former presidents because you cannot come up with any credible arguments defending President Chump.
The statement is that transgender people would disrupt (among other unproven claims) the military, yet 11,000 or more transgender soldiers are already serving and there are no disruptions that have been/are being reported. The decision was made, reasons were thrown out there, but I have yet to see any proof that transgender servicemen/servicewomen cause disruption in the military of any kind.
Agreed, Matthew. But, until the country, the world, as a whole, opens its eyes, heart and mind, we will never see a Utopian kind of government, life or civility. No such thing…only in the writings of Thomas More and Carl Sigman.
I does break the heart. But, we cannot put this weighty onus on one man and his “assistants”.
As I said. We all need to be ‘educated’ on not just our past domestic politicians, but ,also, the rest of the world, with an eagle’s eye.
If we do not do that…open our minds…..well, we are just as guilty as the accuser.
Brave is brave, patriotic is patriotic. No matter the gender.
Here’s a spin: today I have found myself actually liking certain soap stars I never cared for before (Wright, King), simply because I agree with what they said about the current president.
For those being dismissive of the “Hollywood elite” and those who think that being an actor precludes one from having public opinions or from standing on a soap box, I say that they have as much right as anyone to voice their opinions. That goes for Nancy Lee Grahn as well as Kimberlin Brown. And it goes for all of us who post our opinions here.
It’s unfortunate that every time politics is injected into the discussion at this site, sides are taken and battlelines are drawn. I truly like and respect people here who see politics differently from me. But I cannot stay silent…
For those of you who hate Hillary Clinton, do you really think she would have conducted herself with such ineptitude, ignorance, bigotry, and constant drama? Do you really think any other Republican presidential candidate would have done the same? No, of course not! It’s just Trump!
Trump has been a constant embarrassment since day 1: day 1 of his foray into politics (with his inane birther theory), day 1 of his campaign, and day 1 of his presidency. This latest so-called policy forbidding transgender individuals from serving in the military is simply the latest embarrassment. You cannot govern by tweet alone.
I could go on incessantly with the many missteps of the current president and his administration. But included among those are the following: (1) constant lies, almost daily, sometimes multiple ones in 1 day; and (2) collusion. The evidence of collusion is not simply a drip, drip, drip situation; the hallmarks of collusion have basically been demonstrated (particularly with the Trump Jr./Kushner/Mannafort meeting with the Russians that recently came to light). Let’s not forget that Trump and several in his administration (Priebus, Conway, Sessions, etc.) all stated months ago that no one had any contacts with the Russians whatsoever. Those lies have been repeatedly exposed as such, as we continue to learn that principal after principal had meeting after meeting with the Russians.
The President and his ilk are eager to dismantle everything President Obama constructed (e.g., relations with Cuba, environmental protections, etc.). They want to repeal and replace Obamacare. Granted, it has its flaws, but the current attempts to overhaul the healthcare system are mean-spirited, in the process, removing 25+ million Americans from health care coverage.
And now, while the current president attacks Jeff Sessions, while his top-level staff are fighting among themselves, while the Senate is tackling the healthcare issue, he arbitrarily decided to alienate the transgender community, perhaps throwing a bone to his vice-president who abhors the gay community. And for those who say he consulted his military leaders, I would say that’s just his latest lie. The Pentagon and other top military leaders were completely caught off-guard, as were the citizenry, which includes our beloved soap stars.
One thing we have learned is that we cannot take anything this president says, proclaims, or tweets at face value. Me must continue to question, we must continue to investigate, we must continue to be vigilant.
I, for one, am completely exhausted by the constant drama from this White House. This comes from a decades-long soap fan who has a penchant for enjoying drama! Our country deserves far better than what this president and his staff have been dishing out.
Maybe if we all quit judging others whether if we say these judgements and / or these opinions out loud and / or whatnot, than maybe just maybe we would all reap the benefits that we all want to reap very happiedly, because they don’t usually give negating nor negative overall outcomes.
That makes sense, GaysOfOurLives_5683. We’ll hope for the best! Take care.
…. AND to “Abide” by, just-as-well…. !!!!
Exactly! Not a big Wright/King fan either, but I value them speaking out and appreciate them more. So the reverse can be true: you like the actor and their show more for it.
Thanks, WritingMe!
I agree with Nikki, Charday and Dan. I watch soaps to escape. I don’t fault Michael for reporting it. But when I see soap stars or any stars for that matter talking as if their opinions are influential it makes me want to stop watching the soaps they are on. And when a soap writer incorporates a political opinion in a story line it really causes me to want to stop watching that soap. But there are hardly any soaps remaining and I will continue to watch them unless this starts being the majority of stars and story lines.
Just read this on you tube from a retired Military person & I LOVED IT. The Military uses prejudice regularly & consistently to deny citizens from joining. They are as follows Being too old, or being too young, too fat, too skinny, too tall or too short. Citizens are denied for having flat feet, missing or additional fingers. Poor eyesight will disqualify you as will bad teeth. Melnourished,drug addiction, bad back, criminal record, low IQ,anxiety,Phobias,hearing damage,needing a special access for a ramp, can’t run the required course in the required time frame, can’t do the required number of push-ups, not a morning person, can’t get out of bed before noon/ all can be reasons for denial. The Military has one job “WAR” anything else is a distraction and a liability. Did someone just scream “that isn’t fair”? War is very unfair, there are no exceptions made for being special or challenged or socially wonderful.
The military has many jobs, other than just war. The Army Corp of Engineers and Coast Guard rescues to name two. Lots of areas to serve than just on the front line.
Also, the key word in your first sentence is retired. Ask the active military, most of whom have a more up-to-date vision of society their opinions and I’ll guarantee you’ll get a different response.
Not only that, Steve, but all the other conditions that were just listed are disabilities, illnesses or criminal which would hinder one from being a combat soldier. Being transgender would not. Transgender is not an illness nor a disability.
When the law was passed allowing transgenders to serve it was stated that they are subject to the same standards and procedures as other members with regard to their medical fitness for duty, physical
fitness, uniform and grooming, deployability, and retention, consistent with military readiness.
Sounds right; reasonable. How would Trump argue with those facts???
Exactly, Nikki. We do not know what brought this decicion to the table. But, will maintain that transgenders, gays, blacks etc are all persecuted and the brunt of jikes…..as are women in the military.
As su said on another site, she was not there long enough to see what goes on. Both women and men ( in the military) are raped on a regular basis. It’s kept in-house. We will never know all of it.
Better safe than sorry. There are evil,nasty people in the world….bullies, who care not of humanity or the consequences.
Hi Celia..
I was deployed to Iraq I was active duty , I did 4 years.
I witnessed acts you never what to see or know of.. Yes, I witnessed what goes on.
This transgender thing has nothing to with politics or parties it has to with the man himself, he solely without counsel with the generals etc, decided no more transgenders because of medical budget reasons that he knows nothing about outside of a comment made to him.
Excellent points, Nikki! And CeeCee….I’m one who has never favored females serving in a wide-ranging capacity within the military microcosm…but rather more-limited roles such as those more traditionally available to them dating back to both world wars. Despite how modernized our society may have become, there are still undeniable physiological differences that make us much more vulnerable under attack and less able to physically endure certain conditions than men, that’s simply a fact, whether some choose to recognize it or not! (Not to mention, how standards always have to be modified in order for the fairer sex to even qualify for the military, as well as other male-dominated civilian jobs.) Why anyone would believe that women belong in combat or stationed in dangerous third world situations where any female is in serious jeopardy as a second-class citizen is beyond me Plus just read the reports of how many unplanned pregnancies occur on bases, US ships and subs when the sexes are mixed and nature takes its inevitable course, be it by consent or otherwise…it is a true and ongoing problem! (This isn’t ClubMed, it’s the military with one specific purpose, and procreating isn’t it!!!) What I’m attempting to say is that there are many completely acceptable and perfectly logical reasons for banning certain individuals or groups from the armed forces in part or in toto…it probably should happen far more often that it actually does as a means to maintain order and efficiency and no doubt would, were it not considered to be “politically-incorrect” according to those who are primed and ready to raise the rafters whenever their real-life sensibilities are offended. To me, that is what is really narrow-minded…imposing one’s own personal views, desires and agendas upon a highly-specialized organization with a very particular purpose when those individuals themselves would most likely never qualify for the high honor and privilege of joining such rarified ranks. Yet, they are the ones who never fail to immediately question and condemn the experts on any and all decisions.
@Su,
Hey, there, brave soldier,
I did answer you, SuzieQ….did not post.
I misread, my friend—-thought you said four months, not four years. Proud of you!!!!!
Steve/Matthew you are right ANYONE could be captured and tortured but if you read the nightly news along with the Muslim belief they hate gay people. It goes against their religious belief. In Canada alone (on you tube) the P.M. Trudeau was invited to the Gay day parade. The Muslim population wanted to shut it down. He along with his family went, wearing one pink sock and the other was with Arabic language saying welcome to all Muslim’s have a nice day. He was trying to appease both groups. Have you not heard or seen the pictures on the news where Isis has walked into a town and killed ppl. but with homosexual’s they gang rape, torcher and kill. They feel it’s their duty. I won’t fight with you or start name calling but if you read the last posting from a retired Military personnel you may understand a bit better. I felt it was really well written.
I’m well aware of the horrible torture of gay men by ISIS. Trump’s directive is about transgender individuals. The two do not equate. Why shouldn’t a qualified transgender citizen be able to serve in the Coast Guard or as nurse in Army hospital? In administration in the Pentagon?
What’s your point, Nikki? You think they hate gay people more than Americans in general?
Should we now we measuring their hate?
8/10 for Americans
9/10 for Gay people
10/10 for Trans people?
What is the yardstick for their hate? Where is the research you are citing?
What makes you think they will know who is LGBT and who isn’t?
People hate perceived difference for as long as we reify that ‘difference’ by referring to it, demanding different treatment of people ‘different’, etc.
These able bodied and willing young men and women should not be denied the right to serve their country. Forcing young, able bodies individuals out of service is not the same as denying the right to serve to someone who is too old, too young or otherwise not qualified. These young soldiers have proven again and again that they are indeed qualified to serve and they have been serving for years (11,000+ serving right now but in jeopardy because of this ruling). The biggest distraction that I see for the military is the one created by this unjust ruling.
More than 100 high-ranking retired military officers and other conservatives sent an open letter to Mr. Trump in June urging Mr. Trump to repeal the Obama transgender schemes. They observed that transgender recruits are likely to require costly medical, surgical and psychological care that would undermine readiness by rendering these members of the military services “nondeployable.”
The signers noted that the Defense Department would have had to “bear the cost of hormone treatments, surgery, and post-operative care to facilitate ‘gender transitioning.’ ” Potentially more problematic, the signers wrote, the Obama policies were likely to impose “mandates on military medical doctors and nurses to approve, provide or participate in life-altering transgender treatment or surgeries” over their objections on medical-ethics grounds or religious convictions.
There’s no “right” to serve in the military, for transgenders or anyone else. Many physical and mental conditions bar serving in the military, ranging from flat feet to diabetes to peanut allergies.
Estimates vary widely on the number of transgender troops among the 1.3 million men and women in uniform, ranging from 2,500 by the Rand Corp. to 15,000 by one LGBT advocacy organization.
Whatever the number, it’s vanishingly small.
Congressional Democrats, few of whom have served in the armed forces but who are reflexively devoted to advancing the LGBT agenda, reacted angrily to the Trump order. But the president, who promised during the campaign to protect the rights of the transgendered, has done so. He has a further responsibility to protect the military services so as to enable them to do their duty to protect the country.
Those among us who are confused or dissatisfied with their sexual birthright deserve sympathy and understanding, but not at the expense of others. Some of us — the ailing, the physically and psychologically handicapped, the aged — are beyond answering the call to arms. There’s no stigma to that. The military cannot be a laboratory for social experimentation. It has one duty only, to protect the nation, and nothing must hinder the execution of that duty.
My reply that these are not my words or thoughts-but those expressed in favor of the ban was not printed.
How is this ban part of Making America Great Again? We have the most powerful military in the world- with the most advanced weapons-and transgenders threaten to weaken and destroy that and are too much of a burden and expense? Now we have jobs supposedly coming to Wisconsin- with 3 billion in tax subsidies and a corporation that has a history of not keeping their word. Washington is a sewer and a swamp-and both parties are to blame-no working across the aisle or compromise and nothing gets done-except a ban on trans people.
Just some thoughts on the tran issue……
If America is a democracy where everyone is presumed equal…why not in the military (and other institutions, but lets keep it to the trans/military issue)?
The military, as our protector and peacemaker, also has the potential to be the US’s best ambassador of these values in all over the world, as well as example in our own country.
Because the military is associated with “war,” this does not put it into a special exempt-social attitude category. Or brush it under the carpet, on how they treat each other. If the wink-wink, look-the-other-way behavior some commenters have noted exists, which I’m sure it does, it can make you wonder if these “condoned” attitudes could also spill over towards adversaries, other places, or even at home. Not good.
So why continue to give the military a pass on evolving with social issues such as trans, gays, women, racial, ethic, as long as everyone meets the medical and training qualifications? Just like we are trying to do with the bullying issues in our schools, workplaces and social media.
The military, or other law enforcement, are not an easy professions…emotionally and mentally. So give them a big salute. But it seems they both really need more social, mental health services, especially since part of their job is killing and being in harms way. This can also apply to the ptsd trauma many vets are experiencing when they come home.
I am not going to be naive and think this is going to change all attitudes in one generation, and most likely more. We are still working on gender and racial issues after women’s right to vote and legal integration. But I would like take a pro-active path, and think we are trying to live up to our democracies equal rights, instead of continuing with biases and prejudices toward some…such as the trans issue in military. Also realize it will be tough and uncomfortable, and some will never change. 🙂
Because the military is not the same as society at large, far from it, Rose! It is a singularly-unique organization that has never been a democracy…that is not part of its job description!!! It has one noble purpose and that is to protect this country and its interests…period! As such, it has always been allowed to “discriminate” in deciding who can and cannot serve amongst its ranks for a myriad reasons which Nikki has so ably enumerated. I don’t know why that paramount distinction is so impossible for some to acknowledge, especially when we’ve already seen the mixed results of all other institutions in this nation having been remade–not always to their benefit in terms of expense and productivity—to accommodate every possible special interest group known to man. A lot of these same modifications they were forced to implement simply don’t translate well to the military model and negatively impacts its efficiency, readiness, morale and cohesiveness, which are what really matter when one is engaged in defense activities. In fact, lives often depend upon it.
Guess we see this through different lenses. But an interesting discussion.
I realize the military puts people in situations that most of us don’t do or see every day…in this way unique, like many other professions or occupations that not everyone can or wants to be part of. They can be our shields and protectors, as well as good examples and ambassadors for the reasons I mentioned above. That does not exempt them from them or the military from adapting as the rest of society, their family and friends have to.
So If the military does go by your job description they might as well “enlist” robot soldiers without all the human baggage. I’m sure the tech industry will help them, especially based on the how close to “humaness” they are now able to make them…all to replace people (some of which I’m sure you wouldn’t want to hear about re: their reason for being). And other legitimate, well-paying jobs. Cookie cutter. No differences to weed out based on emotional, physical,moral, gender, pre-conceived biases/prejudices. No sex/blood/ethnic/racial/gender differences. Not having to carry on with the vet problem years. This could really make our military “efficient.”
But then we would lose the moral purpose, individuality, the best we can be under challenging circumstances, those to admire and celebrate for their bravery and commitment in protecting us, etc.
And I’m afraid I haven’t seen “myriad reasons which you and Nikki have so ably enumerated to discriminate.” Granted I have heard of some really bad stories, but things that we should work to evolve, not sweep under the rug. Plus, I’m sure their are many stories that express the opposite.
Or the “mixed results of all other institutions in this nation having been remade–not always to their benefit in terms of expense and productivity—to accommodate every possible special interest group known to man.” While even I think sometimes we can get too pc in our approach to every little thing, still think in many, many cases there has been a bigger benefit by being more inclusive. Not easy or instantaneous, but time for the military to also “grow” into this with the rest of us.
I would love for everyone on this thread to show as much compassion for our Wounded Warriors as you do for your transgender buddies! Do you know how many men and women who have fought for this country for your rights and freedom and cannot get the proper medical treatment? The proper chance to be educated or the proper mental care? I am for everything being fair and equal but is that really how life goes? NO!
Timmm, if this were a thread about Wounded Warriors, I’m sure you would see lot of support for those brave men and women. They deserve the best care available.
I watch soaps for the stories and am not the least bit interested in soap stars’ political views regarding President Trump or anyone/anything else. I couldn’t care less how they feel about anything.
Thumbs up!!!! Agreed, Gmbenet.
However, actors have the same first amendment rights afforded to them that we private citizens do. I often see folks on private media railing against soap stars saying that they do not want to hear about their political views.
If we have that right then should it not follow that soap stars have that same right?
They are posting on their own personal Twitter accounts and Facebook pages their political viewpoints –that is well within their rights.
So true Harry, and I see people do the same with Trump. President or not, He still happens to be a person and Human Being and have the same rights given to him.
That is at the very least partly why being President or Leader or Ruler or King of a country and / or of a Nation… can be and / or probably REALLY IS One of THE MOST TOUGHEST and or HARDEST “jobs” to be “completely successful in”, in this here Harrowing, and Hallowed Life and Universe
I have ABSOLUTELY NO PROBLEM with any actor exercising their right to FREE SPEECH. However, there is a difference between exercising FREE Speech and assuming that just because an individual is a soap star or any other type of entertainment star that entertainer’s political opinion is more important than mine or that I am readily influenced by the star’s political opinion SIMPLY BECAUSE HE OR SHE IS A STAR!
I am NOT in the least bit interested in their political opinions. My ONLY interest in them is the entertainment. That goes for ALL actors/entertainers regardless of genre. The good thing about the voting booth in the USA is that it levels the playing field for EVERY voting citizen because each voter only gets one vote! Therefore the political opinion of ANY entertainer (or any registered voter for that matter) is no more or less valuable than mine.
Actors are free to express their views on their social media pages. However this site is reporting the political views of soap actors and asking what I think about their views. My response to that questions is that I couldn’t care less about those views. I’m not interested.
By the way, I didn’t even read what the stars had to say as reported on this page. If you are not interested in what they have to say why bother to read it.
are these people causing trouble in the military. they must be a very small percentage of military men and women. will the prez kick those to the curb who are currently serving.
I believe a cap was put on it but Trump won’t tweet that lol it would make him look more foolish than he is
I’d bet it will never be put into singed order.
Thanks for your service, su!
The President may have the rights afforded to any other citizen of free speech. But being President, he also has to show discretion, tact, political savvy, etc. in what he says and how he says it. Not an impulsive tweet, as one example, to tell us how he really feels. You can’t take them back. Because his words don’t just affect him, they can affect the nation and everyone else on how they are heard and interpreted.
No I don’t. Why should a man who believes he is a woman be in the barracks with a female and vice versa
Soap stars should stick to acting.
Days Of Our Lives
Kristian Alfonso Returns to Days of our Lives for Tribute to The Late Bill Hayes
After a few weeks of Days of our Lives fans being upset that Kristian Alfonso (Hope Williams) was not on the first list of initial returns for Doug Williams’ funeral and episodes honoring his portrayer, the late Bill Hayes, comes word that the popular star is back and taping scenes.
Kristian reported to work on the Peacock streaming soap opera on Monday, April 22nd. She shared how important it is for her to be back for this particular return to the show that made her a household name.
“My return is very bittersweet,” Alfonso told TV Insider, “because it is the end of an era with Bill gone. So to return to Days is very sad. I am appreciative that they came to me to include me in their series of shows honoring Doug and I’m very happy to see everyone, but I’m entering the studio with a heavy heart.”
Photo: JPI
It was back in 1983 that Kristian first debuted as Doug’s daughter, and now 41 years later looking back at it, and her time with Bill Hayes is very emotional for her.
“I remember my first scenes with him/ He was very loving, very welcoming. That he was very talented and an incredible actor and an icon, that all goes without saying, but my personal relationship and my working relationship with Bill, it was home,” expressed Alfonso. “Doing the scenes with Bill, I felt like I was with my dad because there was so much warmth and reality.”
Photo: JPI
Alfonso did express some deep regret, in that she had wanted to work with Bill Hayes during her last appearance on the soap back in 2023, but according to the iconic actress, there was something in the works but it never materialized. “I’m sad that I did not get the opportunity to do the storyline that Ron (Carlivati, head writer) had planned/ It was great; we returned to Salem to reunite with our families and I would have had father/daughter scenes with Billy. What Ron had written was beautiful and emotional and it was a fantastic story. I was 100 percent for it and the fans would have loved it.”
Photo: JPI
As for if Bo (Peter Reckell) and Hope will be back on-screen together anytime soon, Kristian would only say, “What I will say is don’t give up hope.” Doug’s passing and memorial episodes will stream later this year come late November into December.
So, are you happy to learn that Kristian Alfonso is back taping episodes surrounding Doug’s memorial episodes? Comment below.
Breaking News
Steve Kent Reportedly OUT as Sony Pictures Television VP in Charge of DAYS and Y&R
On Friday, reports surfaced that Steve Kent, Senior Executive Vice President of Programming at Sony Pictures Television, is no longer with the company and overseeing the Sony soap operas, Days of our Lives and The Young and the Restless.
According to Soap Opera Digest, a set side source reported that Kent’s last day was last Friday, April 12th, which was one day after what would have been his final appearance in his Sony VP role at the Days of our Lives 15,000th episode on set celebration.
During that ceremony, Kent gave a brief speech giving kudos to DAYS for its incredible milestone. Days is a co-production of Sony Pictures Television and Corday Productions, while Y&R is produced by Bell Dramatic Serial Company in association with Sony Pictures Television.
Photo: JPI
Kent started his soap opera career as a producer for CBS’ defunct Capitol and then as the supervising producer of NBC’s Santa Barbara from1984 to 1993.
Photo: JPI
At Sony, before his role overseeing the soaps, Kent was Senior Executive Vice President of International Productions for Sony Pictures Television International department.
If reports are true, the question becomes who has taken over his position, and would oversee DAYS and Y&R from the Sony side? Share your thoughts on this developing story via the comment section below.
Breaking News
(WATCH) 2024 Daytime Emmy Nominations Special Live!
After exciting morning for your favorite daytime stars when they were revealed to be nominees for the 51st annual Daytime Emmy Awards comes tonight 10th annual Daytime Emmy Nominations Special.
Beginning at 8 pm ET/5 pm PT, several of the nominees will talk with Michael Fairman on their reactions to the news they have been nominated for a Daytime Emmy, share what scenes they submitted that landed in the top five or six in their respective performer acting categories and much more.
Scheduled to appear are: Days of our Lives nominees, Tamara Braun (Ava), Eric Martsolf (Brady) and Linsey Godfrey (Sarah), The Young and the Restless nominees: Allison Lanier (Summer), Michelle Stafford (Phyllis), Courtney Hope (Sally), Bryton James (Devon), The Bold and the Beautiful’s John McCook (Eric), General Hospital nominees, Finola Hughes (Anna) and Alley Mills (Heather), and The Bay’s Mike Manning (Caleb).
Photo: JPI
The 51st annual Daytime Emmy Awards will be broadcast live on CBS and streamed on Paramount+ on Friday night, June 7th and emanating, once again this year from the Bonaventure Hotel in downtown Los Angeles.
Photo: JPI
For a full list of this year’s nominations click here.
Now, watch below as the stars chat it up as we celebrate their Daytime Emmy Nominations. If you have a potential question you might want posed to any of our guests, drop it in the comment section below and we just might ask it on air.
Sean Kanan’s Stepdaughter, Juliet Vega, to Appear on The Bold and the Beautiful
Cameron Mathison Previews New Game Show ‘Beat The Bridge’ (Promo)
Y&R’s Michelle Stafford Talks on Her Lead Actress Daytime Emmy Nomination, Allison Lanier, and ‘Pacific Palisades’ with Finola Hughes
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Nina Confronts Ava for Sabotaging Her Relationship With Sonny and Signs the Divorce Papers
Kim Kardashian, Emma Roberts and Marlene King Land ‘Calabasas’, a Soap in the Vein of the ‘O.C’ and ‘Beverly Hills 90210’, at Netflix
‘Knots Landing’s’ Donna Mills and Joan Van Ark Reunite for Los Angeles Ballet Season 18 Gala
The Young and the Restless Preview: Ashley’s New Alter Emerges
Stephen Schnetzer Talks On His Return to Days of our Lives and Working with Susan Seaforth Hayes In Emotional Episodes
(WATCH) 2024 Daytime Emmy Nominations Special Live!
51st Annual Daytime Emmy Award Nominations: CBS Soaps Score Most, Eric Braeden, Dick Van Dyke, Guy Pearce Receive Nods
Cameron Mathison Previews New Game Show ‘Beat The Bridge’ (Promo)
Y&R’s Michelle Stafford Talks on Her Lead Actress Daytime Emmy Nomination, Allison Lanier, and ‘Pacific Palisades’ with Finola Hughes
GENERAL HOSPITAL: Nina Confronts Ava for Sabotaging Her Relationship With Sonny and Signs the Divorce Papers
AEW Dynasty: Swerve Strickland Becomes AEW World Heavyweight Champion, Jack Perry Returns, Will Ospreay Retires Move After Scary Finish
GH’s Finola Hughes Chats on Her Lead Actress Daytime Emmy Nomination, New Directions for Characters in Port Charles, and Anna’s Love Life
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General HospitalApril 21, 2024‘Knots Landing’s’ Donna Mills and Joan Van Ark Reunite for Los Angeles Ballet Season 18 Gala
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General HospitalApril 15, 2024General Hospital’s Steve Burton Reveals the Emotional Scene He Almost Could Not Get Through
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NewsApril 20, 2024The Young and the Restless Preview: Ashley’s New Alter Emerges
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RecapsApril 14, 2024Y&R’s Eileen Davidson Delivers the ‘Power Performance of the Week’
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Days Of Our LivesApril 19, 2024Stephen Schnetzer Talks On His Return to Days of our Lives and Working with Susan Seaforth Hayes In Emotional Episodes
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Days Of Our LivesApril 14, 2024Days of our Lives wins WGA Award for Daytime Drama Series