Two trans inmates ordered back to women’s prisons amid Reagan-appointed judge’s injunction

Transgender inmates who were moved from a women’s prison to an all-male facility following President Donald Trump’s executive order mandating inmates to live in facilities corresponding to their biological sex are now being sent back to the women’s prison. This decision comes after a judge issued a preliminary injunction in response to a lawsuit against Trump’s executive order.

A Department of Justice (DOJ) spokesperson criticized the judge’s decision, stating, “This is the latest example of an activist judge attempting to seize power at the expense of the American people who overwhelmingly voted to elect President Trump. The Department of Justice has vigorously defended President Trump’s executive actions, including the Defending Women Executive Order, and will continue to do so.”

The injunction was issued by U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth in Washington after two transgender inmates, identified as Rachel and Ellen Doe, were added as plaintiffs to the lawsuit. The court documents allege that since being transferred to a male prison, the inmates have faced challenges such as being unable to access bras and women’s underwear, as well as experiencing sexual harassment.

The original lawsuit, which the new inmates were added to, highlights concerns about the safety of transgender women in men’s facilities, citing risks of sexual harassment, assault, and rape. This injunction adds to a series of legal battles faced by the Trump DOJ regarding the president’s executive orders.

At least 15 transgender prisoners are now protected by orders blocking or reversing the transfers, according to the Associated Press. Lamberth has yet to rule on a lawsuit filed by three other inmates challenging the executive order’s ban on transgender medical treatments in prisons.

The decision to send the transgender inmates back to the women’s prison highlights the ongoing debate surrounding transgender rights and the treatment of transgender individuals within the prison system. As the legal battles continue, the rights and safety of transgender inmates remain a contentious issue that requires careful consideration and legal oversight.

This article was written by Jamie Joseph, a U.S. Politics reporter for Fox News Digital covering transgender and culture issues, the Departments of Education and Health and Human Services, and stateside legislative developments.