The Pentagon’s New Transgender Service Member Policy Faces First Legal Test
A federal judge has questioned the legality of the Pentagon’s policy banning transgender service members. Judge Ana Reyes challenged the government’s rationale, pressing a Department of Justice (DOJ) attorney on the scientific basis and fairness of the decision.
Judge Reyes Questions the Policy’s Justification
During Wednesday’s hearing, Judge Reyes scrutinized the Pentagon’s justification for the ban. She expressed skepticism about the claim that transgender soldiers weaken military readiness. At times, the DOJ attorney struggled to provide clear answers to her pointed questions.
Reyes specifically called out Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s comments about transgender individuals. She noted that describing them as lacking “warrior ethos,” “integrity,” and “discipline” was demeaning. When pressed, the DOJ attorney hesitated to agree that such language was insulting.
Misinterpretation of Scientific Studies
Judge Reyes criticized the Pentagon for misrepresenting studies on transgender service members. She pointed out that the higher rates of suicidal ideation among transgender individuals stem from societal discrimination, not an inherent mental health issue. She even suggested that the DOJ attorneys read the studies they cited, which they admitted they had not done.
“The answer to suicide ideation caused by discrimination is not further discrimination, right?” she asked. The DOJ attorney evaded a direct response, arguing instead that military leaders should determine their policies without court interference.
Allegations of Political Targeting
Reyes suggested that the policy unfairly targets transgender individuals, whom the Trump administration has historically opposed. She questioned whether the Pentagon had ever excluded another group based on a similar medical condition. The DOJ attorney compared the ban to the military’s removal of soldiers who refused COVID-19 vaccinations. Reyes dismissed this argument, pointing out that the vaccine policy affected a broad range of people, unlike the transgender ban.
Plaintiffs Argue the Ban Violates Equal Protection
Opponents of the policy argue that it violates the Fifth Amendment’s equal protection clause. They claim the ban harms transgender soldiers, disrupts unit cohesion, and weakens military effectiveness. The plaintiffs emphasize that fairness and equality are fundamental American values worth defending.
Government lawyers maintain that gender dysphoria presents a significant challenge in a high-stress military environment. They argue that the court should not interfere in military decisions, especially those concerning mental health and operational readiness.
Judge Reyes Previously Expressed Doubts
Last month, Judge Reyes questioned the government’s claims about transgender soldiers affecting military effectiveness. She initially refrained from blocking the policy, awaiting its finalization. Once it was formalized, she quickly demanded clarification on key aspects, including how transgender troops supposedly fail to meet military standards of “honesty, humility, and integrity.”
DOJ Files Complaint Against Judge Reyes
The DOJ has pushed back against Judge Reyes, filing a complaint accusing her of hostility and bias. Attorney General Pam Bondi’s chief of staff, Chad Mizelle, claimed Reyes compromised the dignity of the proceedings. The complaint also alleged she inappropriately questioned a DOJ attorney about his religious beliefs.
The hearing underscores the contentious legal battle over transgender rights in the military. Judge Reyes is expected to rule on the case soon, potentially blocking the policy before it takes effect.
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