A federal judge has blocked Donald Trump’s order denying federal funds to clinics providing transgender surgeries for minors.
U.S. District Judge Brendan Hurson, a Biden appointee, ruled in favor of a lawsuit filed by the ACLU and advocacy groups, arguing the order disrupted access to essential medical care. The executive order had barred federally funded hospitals from providing transgender surgeries to those under 19.
Hurson’s ruling cited severe distress and potential harm to plaintiffs, including increased anxiety and risk of suicide. The injunction will remain until the court makes a final decision.
The Trump administration opposed the ruling, arguing the order’s effects were speculative. Vice President JD Vance criticized federal judges for impeding Trump’s policies, citing other blocked initiatives, including efforts to end birthright citizenship and freeze grants.
Trump condemned the ruling, calling it a “disgrace,” while Republican leaders backed his stance, with some calling for judicial oversight.
