The Justice Department has filed a lawsuit against Maine for permitting transgender student athletes to participate in girls’ and women’s school sports, a move that the administration argues violates President Trump’s executive order to ban such access. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the lawsuit, stating that Maine’s actions have breached Title IX by discriminating against women in women’s sports. The lawsuit contends that Maine’s policies prioritize gender identity over biological reality, depriving female athletes of fair competition and equal opportunities while exposing them to increased risks of injury and psychological harm.

The suit was unveiled at the Justice Department, where Bondi stood alongside Riley Gaines, a former University of Kentucky swimmer critical of transgender athletes in girls’ and women’s sports. The lawsuit highlights instances where transgender students excelled in girls’ sports in Maine, surpassing their competitors. While it remains uncertain how many transgender students are currently involved in school athletics in Maine, the DOJ’s suit references at least three transgender athletes, whereas the Maine Principals’ Association acknowledges only two.

In response to the legal challenge, Maine’s Governor Janet Mills vowed to vigorously defend the state against the DOJ’s actions, citing a commitment to upholding states’ rights and the rule of law. The dispute stems from conflicting state and federal laws, as the MPA has asserted its adherence to state law regarding gender identity despite the federal executive order. The ongoing conflict has led to threats of federal funding cuts to Maine and a legal standoff between the state and the Trump administration.