Trump Administration Petitions Supreme Court to Uphold Transgender Military Ban

The Trump administration has petitioned the Supreme Court of the United States to uphold an executive order banning transgender individuals from serving in the military. President Donald Trump issued the order shortly after returning to office, describing transgender identity as a falsehood that conflicts with military discipline.

The Department of Defense implemented the ban in February 2025, resulting in the forced removal of transgender service members. In June, a group of 28 challengers, led by Second Lieutenant Nicolas Talbott, won a victory in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. The administration is now seeking a permanent reversal of those lower-court rulings.

Solicitor General D. John Sauer argues the ban is essential for military effectiveness and lethality. The Supreme Court is expected to decide this fall whether to review the legality of the ban, with potential oral arguments scheduled for the term beginning in October.