A divided federal appeals court on Monday dealt a setback to President Donald Trump’s effort to remove transgender service members from the U.S. military, ruling that the policy likely violates constitutional protections.
The 2-1 decision from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit largely upheld a lower court ruling that blocked enforcement of Trump’s executive order, which argued that transgender identity is incompatible with military readiness and discipline.
U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes previously issued an injunction after a lawsuit was brought by six active-duty transgender troops and two individuals seeking to enlist. Monday’s ruling narrowed that injunction to protect only the active-duty plaintiffs, while allowing the administration to continue excluding prospective recruits as the case moves forward.
The Trump administration is expected to seek further review, and the ruling will not take effect immediately.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s policy, issued after Trump’s executive order, presumes individuals diagnosed with gender dysphoria are disqualified from military service. Supporters say the policy is necessary to maintain military standards and readiness, while opponents argue it unlawfully discriminates against transgender Americans willing to serve.
The legal fight is far from over. The U.S. Supreme Court previously allowed the administration’s transgender military restrictions to take effect while challenges continue in lower courts, and similar lawsuits remain active across the country.
This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
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This is all about the lgbtq-z trying to force their evil sexual perversion into every niche and cranny of our deteriorating society.