In a bold move to uphold fairness in women’s athletics, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14201, titled “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports,” on February 5, 2025. This directive mandates that educational institutions receiving federal funding must ensure that sports teams designated for women and girls are exclusively composed of biological females.
Minnesota’s Lawsuit Against the Trump Administration
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the executive order, arguing that it infringes on the rights of transgender individuals and violates the state’s Human Rights Act. The legal complaint seeks injunctive relief to block the enforcement of the federal mandate within Minnesota.
Trump Administration’s Defense of Title IX Enforcement
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi responded by affirming that the Trump administration remains committed to defending Title IX’s original purpose—protecting female athletes from discrimination. Bondi stated that allowing biological males to compete against biological females undermines the core intent of the law and constitutes an unfair competitive advantage.
Court Battle Over Equal Protection and Title IX Compliance
Legal analysts suggest that this court battle could become a landmark case interpreting both the Equal Protection Clause and the scope of Title IX. The outcome could have national implications for how educational institutions across the country must structure athletic competition.
Public Backing for Trump’s Executive Action
Supporters of the executive order argue that it restores fairness to women’s sports and protects opportunities for female athletes, who are at risk of losing scholarships, titles, and records under current policies that allow biological males to compete.
The legal clash between Minnesota and the Trump administration highlights the deep constitutional questions surrounding sex-based rights, federal funding conditions, and states’ rights. As litigation unfolds, courts across the country will be watching closely for precedent-setting decisions.