Judge blocks Trump's transgender military ban amid lawsuit
A federal judge has temporarily blocked Donald Trump's order banning transgender people from military service. This decision comes in response to a lawsuit by 20 soldiers and recruits who challenged the U.S. President's policy.
What do you need to know?
- Judge Ana Reyes from Washington blocked Trump's decree, ruling that it may violate the constitutional ban on sex discrimination.
- The lawsuit was filed by 20 people who are challenging the policy banning transgender military service.
- The Trump administration argued that a gender identity not consistent with biological sex conflicts with the duties of a soldier.
Appointed by President Joe Biden, federal judge Ana Reyes from Washington ruled that one of several executive orders by Donald Trump dated January 27, regarding the rights of transgender people, likely violates the constitutional ban on discrimination based on sex.
The military banned and began discharging transgender individuals from service
The Trump administration argued that adopting a gender identity not consistent with biological sex conflicts with a soldier's commitment to an honourable and disciplined lifestyle. During March proceedings, administration lawyers contended that the military has the right to prohibit and discharge individuals with certain conditions that render them unfit for duty. In their view, the judge should trust the Trump administration's assessment.
Judge Reyes, however, pressed the administration's representatives to support their position with evidence.
In the opinion of the plaintiffs — 20 U.S. soldiers and individuals intending to join the military — Trump's mandate is unlawful. They cited a 2020 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that recognized employment discrimination against transgender people as a form of illegal sex discrimination.
According to Department of Defense data, the U.S. armed forces consist of about 1.3 million active-duty soldiers. Transgender rights advocates estimate that as many as 15,000 transgender people serve in the military, whereas the administration estimates this number at only a few thousand. The court's decision is a significant step towards protecting the rights of transgender individuals in the U.S. armed forces.
