Story perspectives

U.S. to Auto-Register Draft-Eligible Men Amid Concerns

4/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Selective Service System will auto-register draft-eligible men later this year, ending self-registration.
A U.S. government official indicated declining registrations and concerns about China.
Since 1980, men aged 18 to 25 must register, which carries felony charges and federal disqualification.
In 2024, 81% of eligible men registered, down from 2023.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump is weighing draft options needing Congressional approval.

History

Historical Context

The Selective Service Act of 1940 initiated the first peacetime draft in the U.S., mandating military registration for men aged 21 to 35. By 1980, registration became compulsory for men aged 18 to 25, with penalties for non-compliance. As of 2024, only 81% of eligible men registered, reflecting ongoing debates about military readiness and national security amid rising tensions with countries like China.

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Story summary

The Selective Service System will auto-register draft-eligible men later this year, ending self-registration.
A U.S. government official indicated declining registrations and concerns about China.
Since 1980, men aged 18 to 25 must register, which carries felony charges and federal disqualification.
In 2024, 81% of eligible men registered, down from 2023.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump is weighing draft options needing Congressional approval.

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