House Democrats Demand Trump Repeal What?

More than 80 House Democrats are urging President Trump to reverse an executive order that limits access to gender-affirming health care for transgender youth. They argue that this order is not only unconstitutional but also dangerous, claiming it puts vulnerable young people’s lives at risk.

This executive order, one of several that President Trump signed targeting transgender rights, was enacted during his second week back in office. The directive accuses medical professionals of “maiming and sterilizing” children and calls for cuts to federal funding for medical care related to gender transitions for minors under 19.

In response to the order, federal judges in Baltimore and Seattle temporarily blocked it, preventing the withholding of funds from hospitals and medical facilities that provide transition-related care. Some medical centers had already begun suspending such care due to concerns over losing federal support.

A group of 89 House Democrats, led by Representative Becca Balint (D-Vt.), sent a letter to President Trump, condemning the executive order as an overreach into personal health care decisions. The letter emphasized that decisions about the health care of transgender youth should be left to the young individuals, their families, and their doctors—without interference from the government.

While major medical organizations have affirmed the importance of gender-affirming care, including for minors, the debate remains heated. As of 2021, half of U.S. states have enacted laws banning transition-related care for minors, such as puberty blockers, hormone therapy, and surgery. This has sparked widespread disagreement about the role of medical professionals, parents, and government in making such critical health decisions.

The letter from Democrats also mentions a separate executive order signed by Trump concerning “social” transition, particularly for minors who have not started puberty and do not require medical interventions.

House Democrats warned that if President Trump continues down this path, they will strongly oppose him every step of the way. They argue that his actions will harm young people, undermining their well-being and their access to necessary care. These lawmakers pledged to fight against any measures that they believe infringe on the rights of transgender youth and their families, emphasizing that this is a battle they intend to win.

In an interview, Rep. Balint stated that she hoped the letter would send a message of solidarity to transgender youth and their families, showing that Congress is fighting back against what they view as unjust policies. She criticized Trump’s approach, calling it an example of bullying and cruelty.