- United States
- Texas
- Letter
President Trump's recent executive order to halt federal funding for gender-affirming care for transgender youth under 19 is deeply concerning. Numerous medical associations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, endorse gender-affirming care as safe, effective, and often medically necessary treatment for transgender and non-binary young people. Denying access to this vital care puts vulnerable youth at grave risk for depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Gender-affirming care is not "radical" but based on decades of research and clinical experience. It allows transgender and non-binary youth to live authentically, reducing mental health issues and improving overall well-being. Families, doctors, and advocates are rightfully challenging this discriminatory policy in court. As an elected official, you have a duty to protect the health and rights of all constituents, including transgender youth. I urge you to publicly oppose this harmful order and work to ensure continued access to gender-affirming care through federal programs like Medicaid. Every young person deserves the chance to live freely as their true self.