Mark Takano: “There is no evidence that having transgender troops…”

“This amendment would codify that exclusion into law. There are no grounds to exclude trans people from the military except for hatred, prejudice and bigotry. There is no evidence that having transgender troops negatively impacts military readiness. Our military is strongest when every qualified service member is able to serve. We are who we are as a country when strong, qualified, patriotic candidates who want to serve their country are turned away simply because of ignorant legislating.” (04:51–04:58)

This is an excerpt from a raw transcript. The assertions have not been audited or verified. Tap the video to view the source footage and understand the context.