The Selective Service System has found itself at the center of a political controversy after posting a message on X (formerly Twitter) that likened the U.S. to Nazi Germany in 1936. The post, shared on the agency’s official account, triggered widespread condemnation across the political spectrum.
According to the New York Post, the message read, “For all you stupid f—s out there that still believe military service will be voluntary. Remember Germany 1936.” This inflammatory comment, which remained on the agency’s account for over an hour, was flagged by CBS News reporter, who asked, “What’s going on with the @SSS_gov (Selective Service) X account?”
This incident unfolded amidst a polarized political climate, where comparisons between former President Donald Trump and Adolf Hitler have become increasingly common among some Democrats and critics. The Selective Service post seemed to allude to Hitler’s decision in 1935 to reintroduce military conscription in Germany, a violation of the Treaty of Versailles, followed by his militarization of the Rhineland in 1936.
Despite the backlash, the Selective Service System has maintained that its role is non-political. The agency’s website clarifies that its mission is to ensure readiness for a potential draft, emphasizing that while there is no current draft, federal law requires nearly all U.S. males aged 18 to 25 to register for the Selective Service.
Former President Trump, who was recently re-elected, has denied any intentions to reinstate the draft, calling claims of mandatory military service “ridiculous.”
This controversial post has sparked a debate over the appropriateness of comparing the U.S. to Nazi Germany, especially in the midst of charged political rhetoric. The incident underscores the sensitivity around historical references in modern political discourse and the risks of such comparisons being misconstrued.
