Trump Administration Enacts Sweeping Executive Order Defining Sex as Binary

The order eliminates federal recognition of nonbinary identities, halts gender-affirming passport options, and ties sex definitions to biological concepts.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order declaring the United States will only recognize two sexes, male and female, as defined by biological criteria at conception.
The order directs federal agencies to adjust policies, ending recognition of nonbinary identities and halting the issuance of 'X' gender marker passports introduced under the Biden administration.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio implemented the order by suspending all new and pending nonbinary passport applications, though existing 'X' passports remain valid until expiration.
Critics, including LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and biologists, argue the order oversimplifies biological science and could face legal challenges for its definitions and potential impacts on transgender rights.
The order also bans federal funding for programs or initiatives deemed to promote 'gender ideology,' raising questions about its implications for schools and state-level protections.