Letitia James Leads Challenge to Trump’s Trans Military Ban, New Yo…

NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James is leading a multi-state revolt against the Trump administration’s attempt to reinstate a discriminatory ban on transgender individuals serving in the military. The fight, detailed in an amicus brief filed with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, isn’t just about rights; it’s about gutting national security and betraying those who’ve already served with honor.

The legal battle centers around Shilling v. Trump, challenging President Trump’s February 10th executive order. James, alongside Attorneys General from 20 other states, argues the order is a blatant constitutional overreach, reversing nearly a decade of progress and directly threatening the readiness of the National Guard. “Transgender service members proudly uphold the values of our nation with honor, courage, and sacrifice,” James stated, her words a direct rebuke of the administration’s policy. “In New York and nationwide, the National Guard depends on every qualified individual willing to serve, especially as our communities face escalating climate disasters and other threats. My office will not allow the federal government to attack our residents and weaken our military.”

This isn’t a new fight. Back on January 27, 2025, Trump issued the “Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness” executive order, effectively opening the door to widespread restrictions on transgender service members. James and her colleagues immediately fired back, filing an amicus brief in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington, supporting a lawsuit brought by current and prospective service members. A preliminary injunction was granted on March 27th, but the administration is appealing, forcing this latest showdown in the Ninth Circuit.

The amicus brief lays out a stark reality: transgender individuals have served, and continue to serve, with no demonstrable negative impact on military effectiveness. James and her fellow AGs emphasize the critical role of the National Guard in their states—emergency response, public safety, and increasingly, cybersecurity—all of which would be compromised by arbitrarily excluding qualified personnel. This isn’t just about fairness; it’s about practical, on-the-ground security. The attorneys general contend the order clashes with state-level civil rights laws, including New York’s protections against discrimination in employment and education, and threatens the futures of ROTC students and maritime academy cadets.

The consequences extend beyond active duty. The brief details the devastating impact on transgender veterans, current service members who previously disclosed their identities under more inclusive policies, and those considering enlistment. The administration’s sudden reversal is painted as a betrayal, eroding morale and trust within the ranks. Forcing individuals to conceal their identity carries documented risks to mental health and performance, with ripple effects extending far beyond the military itself. The states argue the policy sends a dangerous message of exclusion across the nation.

This marks the third amicus brief Attorney General James has filed opposing the ban, signaling a relentless commitment to fighting this discriminatory policy in court. The case remains pending before the Ninth Circuit, with the outcome poised to have far-reaching implications for transgender service members and the future of military inclusivity. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this developing story and expose any attempts to undermine the rights and safety of those who serve.

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