Hegseth suggests judge report to military bases after ruling that Pentagon must allow transgender troops
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made headlines on Saturday when he criticized U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes for her ruling that the Pentagon must allow transgender troops to serve in the military. Hegseth suggested that Judge Reyes should report to military bases since she is now considered a “top military planner.”
Last week, Judge Reyes issued a preliminary injunction blocking President Donald Trump’s executive order banning transgender individuals from serving in the military. Trump’s order, issued on January 27, stated that individuals expressing a gender identity different from their biological sex would not meet the standards required for military service. The order also directed the Department of Defense to update its medical standards and pronoun policies.
In response to the ruling, Hegseth took to social media to express his disagreement. He suggested that Judge Reyes should use her expertise as a military planner to train Army Rangers at Fort Benning and Green Berets at Fort Bragg.
Despite the injunction, the Trump administration has indicated that it plans to appeal the decision. Judge Reyes expressed concerns that the executive order may violate constitutional rights and emphasized the importance of upholding equal protection rights for all individuals who have served in the military.
Hegseth’s comments have sparked debate and controversy, with many arguing over the implications of allowing transgender individuals to serve in the military. The judge’s decision to block the ban has been praised by supporters of transgender rights, who believe that all individuals who have served in the military deserve respect and recognition for their sacrifices.
As the legal battle continues, it remains to be seen how the issue of transgender military service will be resolved. In the meantime, Judge Reyes’s ruling serves as a reminder of the ongoing debate surrounding transgender rights and equality in the military.
