Recent developments have marked a significant turn in the political landscape as two military officers, pushed out by the Trump administration, step into the congressional arena. Their entry signals a broader discontent with military policies that emerged during Trump’s presidency, particularly those impacting members of the transgender community.
Bree Fram, a retired colonel from the U.S. Space Force, announced her candidacy for Congress in Northern Virginia. Fram’s career was abruptly curtailed last December due to the administration’s imposition of the transgender service member ban. In her campaign launch video, she made a powerful statement, asserting, “I’m not going to run away from my oath to the Constitution.” This line reflects her commitment to public service and underscores her desire to advocate for those who feel threatened by governmental policies.
Fram emphasized, “I served 23 years wearing the flag on my shoulder, reaching the rank of colonel. But then Donald Trump fired me, not because of my performance but because of who I am.” This poignant reflection reveals the personal stakes behind her political ambitions. Her determination stems not only from her own dismissal but also from a broader concern for the well-being of all Americans. “Too many Americans are afraid of what the federal government will do to them instead of being confident of what it can do for them,” she stated, framing her campaign as a call to restore faith in government as a force for good.
Meanwhile, in South Carolina, Nancy Lacore, a former three-star admiral, has launched her own congressional bid. Following a lengthy military career that began as a Navy helicopter pilot, Lacore was removed last August during a leadership shift directed by War Secretary Pete Hegseth. In her campaign announcement, she highlighted the abruptness of her dismissal, insisting, “I was removed from my position without cause.” Such a claim raises questions about the criteria used for leadership decisions within the military and seals her narrative as one of regained authority and purpose.
Lacore’s assertion, “I still have more to give, more to fight for, more work to do… and I am not done serving,” encapsulates her resolve to transition from military life to political involvement. With decades of service behind her, she embodies a voice for accountability and continued service, determined to influence the political landscape for the better.
Both Fram and Lacore are stepping into a climate where their military experiences and subsequent discharges due to Trump-era policies may resonate with voters. Their bids exemplify a growing trend where former military personnel seek to reclaim their voices and advocate for policy changes from within Congress. In Virginia, the impending redistricting might further shape Fram’s campaign strategy, as she plans to align her candidacy with whatever district she finds herself in after the changes.
The dynamics of these races come against a backdrop of ongoing changes within the military and how politics can influence service members’ experiences. As they embark on their campaigns, their historical contexts highlight a significant moment before the upcoming elections. With both candidates bringing their military backgrounds into political discussions, they are well positioned to challenge the status quo and aim to shift the narrative surrounding military service, government trust, and inclusive leadership.
The upcoming midterms may serve as a bellwether for the impact of these changes, as Democrats look to capitalize on discontent stemming from previous administration policies. Whether or not voters in Virginia and South Carolina are willing to embrace these candidates remains to be seen, but Fram and Lacore’s entries mark a notable shift in the political discussion surrounding military service and government role.
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