Supreme Court Allows Military Transgender Ban Amid Legal Challenges

WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld the Trump administration’s ban on transgender individuals serving in the military while legal challenges continue. This controversial policy, which effectively disqualifies transgender people from military service, threatens to expel experienced and decorated officers.

The court’s liberal justices opposed the policy, but no explanations were provided for the majority ruling, a common occurrence in such emergency appeals. This policy follows an executive order issued by President Trump in January, asserting that transgender service members negatively affect military readiness.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ramped up enforcement, issuing guidance for the military to identify and remove transgender individuals. Responding to the Supreme Court ruling, Hegseth characterized the directive as a departure from “wokeness.”

Federal judges had previously ruled against the ban, with U.S. District Court Judge Benjamin Settle supporting a group of transgender plaintiffs who argue that the ban’s implementation would irreparably harm their careers. Notably, one plaintiff, Navy commander Emily Shilling, has flown numerous missions in combat.

LGBTQ advocacy groups criticized the ruling, labeling it a regression for military equality and emphasizing that the ban is rooted in prejudice. They assert that transgender service members are entitled to the same rights and protections as all service members.

As the appeals process unfolds over the coming months, the transgender ban remains enforced, marking a significant setback for LGBTQ rights within the military.