Block on Trump’s ban on transgender military service

The executive order in question is part of a series of measures targeting transgender rights, including defining gender strictly based on biological sex at birth. The administration argues that certain conditions, such as gender dysphoria, render individuals unsuitable for military service, akin to other medical conditions like bipolar disorder. However, Judge Reyes criticised the lack of evidence supporting this claim and highlighted that many transgender service members have risked their lives, underscoring the potential violation of equal protection rights.

The legal challenge against the ban was mounted by 20 current and prospective service members who argue that the policy violates the Constitution's prohibition on sex discrimination. This lawsuit is among several others filed against the administration's attempts to restrict transgender individuals from serving openly in the military.

Notably, two transgender Air Force service members, Master Sergeant Logan Ireland and Staff Sergeant Nicholas Bear Bade, have also filed a lawsuit challenging the executive orders, asserting that these directives violate the equal protection clause of the Fifth Amendment.