Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea J. Campbell has joined forces with 19 of her colleagues nationwide in challenging President Donald Trump’s executive order banning transgender individuals from serving in the military. The court filing, a friend of the court brief, aims to block the enforcement of Trump’s policy reinstating a ban on transgender enlistment and transitioning while serving. Current and prospective transgender soldiers have filed a lawsuit against this policy, with a hearing scheduled for February 18th in U.S. District Court in Washington D.C.
Campbell and her colleagues argue that the executive order is unconstitutional and discriminates against transgender individuals who are currently serving in the military, including in state National Guard units. The brief highlights the administration’s cruel treatment of transgender Americans, an already vulnerable population. This legal action is part of a broader effort by Democratic state attorneys general to challenge the White House on multiple fronts, including issues related to federal funding and birthright citizenship.
Trump’s order sets strict standards for troop readiness and prohibits transgender individuals from using facilities that correspond to their gender identities, among other restrictions. Campbell emphasized her respect for transgender service members who risk their lives to protect the country, condemning the administration’s attack on their rights. State attorneys general from 19 states, including California, New York, and Washington, have also signed the brief in support of blocking the implementation of Trump’s discriminatory policy.
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