Letitia James Faces Scrutiny Over Transgender Guidance for Minors Amid Trump’s Executive Order
Libs of TikTok recently spotlighted a controversy involving New York Attorney General Letitia James, accusing her of defying President Trump’s executive order banning transgender surgeries and hormone treatments for minors. The executive order, titled “PROTECTING CHILDREN FROM CHEMICAL AND SURGICAL MUTILATION,” prohibits federal support for such procedures.
Despite this, James’ official website offers a guide informing minors—some under 16—of their right to receive hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgeries in New York. The page outlines how young individuals can access care with medical approval and documentation of understanding, even without explicit parental involvement.
Critics argue James’ guidance contradicts Trump’s policy. Senator Mike Lee called the situation “child abuse,” and others demanded legal consequences, especially if minors are being encouraged to bypass parental consent.
Libs of TikTok shared screenshots from the AG’s site, which says minors have the right to treatment regardless of age or parental input under New York anti-discrimination laws.
The clash underscores a deeper legal and cultural battle between state and federal authority over transgender care for minors. Whether James will face legal consequences remains to be seen, but the incident has ignited sharp debate over state defiance of federal mandates.