Six Transgender Service Members Sue Trump Over Military Ban
Six current and former service members, including four members of the Army, one of the Navy, and one of the Air Force, have filed a lawsuit against President Trump in response to his recent executive order banning transgender individuals from serving in the military. The ban, which was signed a day prior to the filing of the lawsuit, claims that being transgender is inconsistent with military values and would harm military preparedness.
The plaintiffs, who are being represented by lawyers from the National Center for Lesbian Rights and GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders, argue that the ban is unconstitutional and seek an emergency hearing to stop its enforcement. The lawsuit also contends that the ban was not the result of a fact-based analysis or consideration of the impact on military preparedness, but rather reflects “animosity” towards transgender people.
The plaintiffs are all highly decorated service members, with one, Army Sgt. First Class Kate Cole, having served in combat in Afghanistan. They claim that the ban will unfairly halt their military aspirations and careers, including Cole’s 17-year service in the Army.
The lawsuit also points out that the ban was issued without conducting a study on the effectiveness of transgender service members or considering alternative options. “Rather than being based on any legitimate governmental purpose, the ban reflects animosity toward transgender people because of their transgender status,” the suit charges.
The Pentagon has declined to comment on the lawsuit, but a White House spokesperson did not immediately return a request for comment. The lawsuit is a blow to the Trump administration’s efforts to restrict the rights of transgender individuals, and it is likely to be closely watched by advocates for LGBTQ+ rights.