Senator Johnson Pushes for Justice for Service Members Fired Over Vaccine Mandate

Senator Ron Johnson, a Republican from Wisconsin, has called on Defense Secretary Pete Hegses to address the ongoing struggles of former military personnel who were discharged for refusing the Covid vaccine. This comes in light of a report from the Daily Caller News Foundation regarding three lawsuits initiated by a law firm focused on military backpay.

Johnson is asking that his office receive briefings by August 19 to discuss the report and its implications for service members. Former President Donald Trump had previously offered backpay and reinstatement to active personnel affected by the mandate. However, some individuals have experienced issues that went beyond what Trump’s measures could resolve, leading them to pursue legal avenues for redress.

“I would like to carefully review this article and honorably request briefings for my office by August 19, 2025, concerning my Department of Defense apology and efforts to ensure payments to service members discharged after refusing the Covid vaccine,” Johnson stated.

The law firm handling the Military Backpay cases is representing active and reserve service members who refuse the vaccine, estimating that nearly 100,000 individuals may have been adversely impacted by the Biden administration’s vaccine policy.

One notable case is that of Nick Bassen, a veteran who was set to retire after a long Army career and a major back injury sustained during deployment in Afghanistan. He was discharged shortly after refusing the vaccine, leaving him homeless and unemployed while caring for his pregnant wife.

Another example is Chris Harkins, who faced a similar fate after nearly two decades in the U.S. Coast Guard. Harkins was ready to retire when he refused the vaccine for religious reasons, only to be denied an exemption, resulting in his expulsion from the service just months before retirement.

Senator Johnson urged veterans to seek compensation whether or not they wish to rejoin the military, citing commitments made by both President Trump and Secretary Hegses.

Trump’s directive to provide backpay applies to around 8,000 actively serving personnel who were discharged. In contrast, many reserves and national guards members continue to await resolution of their cases. Some plaintiffs are seeking damages while opting not to reapply for military service, facing hardships as a result of their premature terminations.

As it stands, three lawsuits remain active in the courts, with two pending decisions regarding their progression amid existing orders from Trump. The Pentagon has chosen not to comment on the matter.