Overview

• The Trump administration's policy banning transgender individuals from serving openly in the military remains blocked by multiple federal injunctions.
• During a hearing at the Circuit Court of Appeals, judges pressed the government on its lack of evidence for harm caused by allowing transgender troops to serve openly.
• Justice Department lawyer Jason Manion stated that the administration will ask the Supreme Court 'very soon' to allow the policy to take effect while litigation continues.
• The Pentagon's policy requires transgender individuals to serve only under their birth sex and bars access to gender-affirming facilities and care, citing military readiness concerns.
• Critics, including lawyers for transgender service members, argue the policy stigmatizes troops, lacks factual support, and undermines constitutional protections.