Supreme Court Shake-Up: What Trump's Return Could Mean for Guns and Transgender Rights


Supreme Court Shake-Up: What Trump's Return Could Mean for Guns and Transgender Rights

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The Supreme Court's stance on major issues could shift dramatically with the incoming Trump administration, impacting rules on ghost guns and bans on transgender healthcare for minors.


Ghost Guns: A Public Safety Concern


Gun control advocates had hoped the Supreme Court would uphold Biden-era regulations requiring serial numbers on ghost guns—firearms made from kits that are otherwise untraceable. However, with Donald Trump's administration taking over, these rules could be rescinded. Advocates, like Douglas Letter of the Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence, express deep concern about the potential rollback.

“We’re very worried because of the major public safety and health risks,” Letter said.


Gun rights organizations, including the NRA, are optimistic Trump will fulfill his campaign promise to undo what they call "attacks" on lawful gun owners.


Transgender Care: A Pivotal Issue


Another high-stakes case before the Supreme Court involves state bans on puberty blockers and hormone therapy for transgender minors. The Justice Department under Biden has argued these bans are unconstitutional, but Trump’s administration could reverse that stance.


Trump has made opposition to gender-affirming care a cornerstone of his campaign, framing it as a protective measure for youth. Advocacy groups like the Alliance Defending Freedom have supported state bans, citing concerns over the long-term effects of such treatments.

“The Trump campaign has shown a strong commitment to protecting kids from harmful drugs and surgeries,” said Matt Sharp, senior counsel at the organization.


Policy Whiplash and the Courts


Changes in administration often lead to abrupt reversals on legal positions, as seen during Trump’s first term and Biden’s subsequent policy shifts. Such reversals could influence key cases on abortion, environmental protections, and healthcare regulation.


For example, the Biden administration is challenging Idaho's strict abortion ban, arguing it conflicts with federal emergency care requirements. But a Trump administration might withdraw this challenge if the case reaches the Supreme Court.


The Bigger Picture

The outcomes of these cases could have far-reaching implications. If the Trump administration alters the Justice Department's positions, groups like the ACLU may need to take the lead in defending transgender rights and other issues.


“There's no question that these legal battles will continue,” said David H. Gans of the Constitutional Accountability Center, who supports challenges to state bans on transgender care.


With about half the states passing similar bans, the Supreme Court is likely to issue a definitive ruling in the future.


Looking Ahead


Whether on ghost guns, transgender care, or other contentious issues, Trump’s return could reshape the legal and regulatory landscape. Advocacy groups on both sides are bracing for a fight, with each anticipating significant shifts in federal policy.

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