Rob Schneider has sparked backlash online after sharing his thoughts on bringing in mandatory military service for young people in the US.
The actor and comedian, known for appearing in a number of Adam Sandler films, laid out the idea in a lengthy post on X. In it, he argued that the move would bring young Americans together to be “united in service to their country,” referencing the US and Israel launching an attack on Iran.
Schneider has not publicly detailed whether he has served in the military. However, he has voiced support for Donald Trump and performed at a Turning Point USA event last year. In his post, he said “each and every” 18-year-old in the country should give time to the armed forces as part of a broader effort to “recommit ourselves to one Nation under God, indivisible.”
The actor added: “Therefore, we must restore the military draft for our Nation’s young people.”
Continuing his argument, the comedian — who previously claimed children’s hospitals “didn’t exist” when he was younger — wrote: “Being a citizen of the United States gives us unparalleled Freedoms and opportunities that are the envy of the world,” before adding, “However, these Freedoms that we cherish do not come without a cost.”
He went on to say that “by protecting and preserving these Freedoms, young people, regardless of race, creed or religion will be united in service to their country and just as importantly, to each other.”
Explaining what he believes the benefits would be — and why the US should consider its first conscription-style program since the Vietnam era — Schneider pointed to “rigorous physical training” and the creation of a large pool of people who could act as a “standing army ready at all times including for domestic problems like natural disasters.”
He also criticized higher education, writing: “Unlike in today’s Universities, our young people will learn how truly great their country is and how unique and incredible are the Freedoms that this Nation bestows upon them.”
Toward the end of the message, he addressed “the young people of America,” telling them that “this is your country and your future.”
He said to them: “We will leave this great and Free Nation in your good hands for your children and for your children’s children.”
But his comments were met with heavy criticism on X, including from veterans and other US users.
One former serviceman responded by questioning Schneider’s own service history, writing: “As a veteran, no. No more wars for Israel at the cost of American youth. Also, f*** you.”
Another echoed the point, saying: “This is an interesting take for a man who never spent a single day in uniform within our armed forces. Rules for thee but not for me Rob? How many of YOUR kids have enlisted? F*** off.”
Not everyone disagreed, though. One user suggested the concept could be tied to voting rights, arguing that a person should not be allowed to vote unless they have completed service.