The U.S. Census Bureau, under the Trump administration, has requested approval to remove questions regarding gender identity from a key monthly survey that captures real-time information about American life. This move aligns with President Trump’s directive to eliminate federal support for programs promoting “gender ideology.” Trump’s order, issued at the start of his second term, mandates that sex be defined strictly as male or female on official documents and in federal policies, contradicting views held by medical experts who see sex and gender as a spectrum.

Trump’s focus on transgender and nonbinary individuals has led to a series of executive orders, currently facing legal challenges. A recent federal court ruling in Seattle partially blocked Trump’s plan to withhold funding from institutions offering gender-affirming care to transgender youth. Despite this, the Census Bureau is considering excluding gender identity questions from the upcoming 2027 American Community Survey, following initial testing of sexual orientation and gender identity inquiries in trial questionnaires last year.

Additionally, the Census Bureau unexpectedly canceled the spring meeting of an advisory committee crucial for shaping the 2030 census, which influences political representation and federal funding allocation. The reason for the cancellation remains undisclosed, with the Bureau deferring inquiries to the Department of Commerce. Updates on this issue are pending as more details emerge. Follow journalist Mike Schneider on Twitter for further developments.