Pro-Trump thinktank targets trans care, calls children 'low-hanging fruit'

A recent event by the America First Policy Institute (AFPI) highlighted its strategy to end gender-affirming care, with an official stating that children are the "low-hanging fruit" in this effort. Jennifer Bauwens, who leads research and policy priorities at AFPI, emphasized, "We’re not going to quit until we see this thing totally and completely overturned." The AFPI, closely aligned with former President Trump, has been instrumental in pushing for bans on medical transition for minors and is now setting its sights on adults as well.

The AFPI's influence is significant, with claims of having over 70 staffers from the Trump administration, including eight in cabinet-level positions. This week, the organization published a model state bill that would restrict therapists from facilitating social transitions for minors, further tightening the grip on transgender rights. The proposed rules from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) would ban hospitals from providing gender-affirming care to young people, a move described by former Trump staffer Scott Centorino as a "nuclear weapon."

As the AFPI continues to gain momentum, it exposes a growing divide within the administration regarding the prioritization of adult versus minor care. While the focus remains on minors, the rhetoric suggests an expanding agenda that could reshape healthcare policies for all transgender individuals. The strategic play here is clear: by framing the issue around protecting children, the AFPI aims to shift public opinion and create a pathway to broader restrictions.

What to watch: The upcoming implementation of the CMS proposed rules could significantly impact access to gender-affirming care across the country.