Trans congresswoman Sarah McBride condemns Trump’s anti-trans military ban in powerful speech

US Representative Sarah McBride, the first openly trans member of Congress, has delivered a scathing rebuke of President Donald Trump’s ban on trans military personnel, calling the policy “immoral,” “unfair,” and “un-American.”

Speaking passionately on the House floor, McBride denounced the Trump administration’s decision to expel trans service members, accusing it of weakening national security and wasting billions in taxpayer investment. “These are Americans who have served with honour, with distinction, and with unshakable patriotism,” she said. “They are being told they can no longer serve simply because of how they express their gender”.

We see every day what honour, discipline, and sacrifice look like, regardless of someone’s gender identity.

The policy, reinstated during Trump’s second term, mandates the removal of currently serving trans personnel and bars new enlistments. Despite legal challenges, the US Supreme Court recently allowed the policy to take effect via an emergency stay.

McBride, a Democrat representing Delaware, highlighted the personal impact on her constituents, noting that her district includes tens of thousands of active-duty service members and veterans. “In our state, service isn’t abstract - it’s personal,” she said. “We see every day what honour, discipline, and sacrifice look like, regardless of someone’s gender identity”.

She further criticised the policy as a “cynical ploy” designed to “divide and distract,” rather than a decision based on military readiness or fiscal responsibility. “This isn’t about discipline or merit. It’s about exclusion,” McBride asserted. “Our military, which should never be a political tool, is paying the price”.

The renewed ban has sparked outrage among LGBTQ+ advocates and civil rights groups, who argue it undermines the contributions of thousands of qualified service members and sends a dangerous message about inclusion and equality in the armed forces.