Story perspectives

Judge Orders Pentagon to Defend Transgender Testosterone Program

7/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

District Judge Ana Reyes ordered the Pentagon to justify its testosterone program under President Donald Trump’s transgender ban.
She referenced Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s July 15 plan to screen troops 30 and older and offer therapy.
Reyes set an August 7 briefing on six issues and a discovery deadline of December 14.
On June 30 she certified a class of transgender service members and recruits, with the Pentagon not disclosing cost or enrollment.

History

Historical Context

Congress passed the Don't Ask, Don't Tell Repeal Act in December 2010 and President Barack Obama signed it, ending the ban on gay service members. Defense Secretary Robert Gates certified the repeal in July 2011, and the Pentagon projected about 5,500 transgender personnel—0.3% of the force—could serve without restriction. Today, District Judge Ana Reyes ordered the Pentagon to justify its testosterone program, recalling the 2010 policy debate.

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Story summary

District Judge Ana Reyes ordered the Pentagon to justify its testosterone program under President Donald Trump’s transgender ban.
She referenced Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s July 15 plan to screen troops 30 and older and offer therapy.
Reyes set an August 7 briefing on six issues and a discovery deadline of December 14.
On June 30 she certified a class of transgender service members and recruits, with the Pentagon not disclosing cost or enrollment.

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