After her standout role in Joker: Folie à Deux and a successful soundtrack album Harlequin, Lady Gaga is ready to take fans on a new musical journey with her highly anticipated album Mayhem. The pop icon has officially revealed the 14-track list for the album, which promises to showcase her signature style of boundary-pushing artistry.
This week, Lady Gaga shared the full tracklist for Mayhem, which is set to drop on Friday, March 7. The album’s opener includes previously released songs “Disease” and “Abracadabra,” and builds to a dramatic conclusion with “Die With a Smile,” a powerhouse collaboration with Bruno Mars. The latter track made waves earlier this year when it won the 2025 Grammy Award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance.
Fans can expect a dynamic mix of high-energy pop anthems, dark romance, and Gaga’s trademark provocative storytelling. The album includes intriguingly titled tracks like “Perfect Celebrity,” “Zombieboy,” and “LoveDrug,” which hint at a blend of Gaga’s signature style and new musical directions. Collaborations, such as Killah featuring Gesaffelstein, further suggest that Mayhem will feature a unique fusion of electronic, pop, and experimental sounds.
Mayhem comes on the heels of Lady Gaga’s recent Grammy win and serves as her first full studio album since Joanne in 2016. The album’s release follows a successful run of appearances, including her chart-topping soundtrack for A Star Is Born and her involvement in Joker: Folie à Deux—projects that solidified her status as one of pop music’s most influential and versatile performers.
Lady Gaga’s loyal fanbase, known as Little Monsters, have been eagerly awaiting new music from the pop icon, and with the Mayhem album, it seems that the wait is finally over. The album is now available for pre-order and pre-save on LadyGaga.com.
With Mayhem, Gaga continues to captivate her audience with her ever-evolving sound and bold artistic vision, setting the stage for another era of chart-topping hits and unforgettable performances. Fans will be able to enjoy the full album beginning March 7, marking the beginning of yet another thrilling chapter in Lady Gaga’s storied career.
After two decades of changing lives on-screen, the stars of Queer Eye are taking their message of love, acceptance, and transformation on the road with their first-ever live tour, The Fab Five Live! The tour kicked off at the Miller Theater in Philadelphia, where Jonathan Van Ness, Tan France, Karamo Brown, Antoni Porowski, and newest member Jeremiah Brent received a warm, Eagles-style welcome from their enthusiastic fans.
The event, moderated by comedian Michelle Collins, featured a mix of interactive games, fan engagement, and poignant conversations about celebrating the LGBTQ+ community through allyship and unity. It was an emotional evening that underscored the values that have made Queer Eye a cultural phenomenon.
The Fab Five Live! is a multi-city tour produced by Scout Productions, the team behind Queer Eye. The tour is designed to honor and celebrate the diverse community that the series has built over the past 20 years. Queer Eye creator David Collins spoke passionately about the significance of the live show in these challenging times, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community. “At a time when our brothers and sisters in the LGBTQ+ community are feeling targeted, it was beyond moving to create a safe space for all and celebrate everyone’s identity,” Collins said. “Putting the unity in community is what it’s all about these days. To see this through heart and humor in person is exactly what we intended when we first created the series twenty years ago.”
The tour follows the success of Queer Eye‘s groundbreaking ninth season, in which the Fab Five brought their signature blend of transformation and heart to Las Vegas. Fans attending the live shows can expect a mix of personal stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and highlights from the series, all presented with the humor and authenticity that have made the Fab Five beloved by millions.
Tickets for the Fab Five Live! tour are now available for purchase. The next stop will be at the Beacon Theatre in New York City on February 20, followed by performances in Chicago on February 23 and Washington D.C. on February 24. The tour will wrap up with a final show in Los Angeles on March 12.
The Los Angeles performance will also serve as a fundraiser for the SoCal Fire Fund. In response to the devastating wildfires in California, the Queer Eye family has partnered with several organizations, including the CAA Foundation, CORE, and the Los Angeles Unified School District Education Foundation, to support victims of the January 2025 fires. The SoCal Fire Fund aims to provide immediate relief and long-term support for those most affected by the disaster.
Fans of the show can look forward to an unforgettable evening filled with heartwarming moments, laughter, and the opportunity to support an important cause as the Fab Five continue their nationwide tour.
A new report from Gallup reveals that 9.3% of U.S. adults now identify as LGBTQ+, marking a significant increase, particularly among younger generations and bisexual women.
The Gallup survey, conducted via telephone with 14,000 participants in 2024, shows a rise in the number of people identifying as LGBTQ+ across the United States. The report highlights key demographic shifts, with nearly one in four adults between the ages of 18 and 27 identifying as LGBTQ+. The trend is especially noticeable among Gen Z women, with 31% identifying as LGBTQ+, compared to 12% of Gen Z men.
Among those who identify as LGBTQ+, half of them—50%—are bisexual. Women are nearly twice as likely as men to identify as LGBTQ+, according to the data.
The report also delves into the transgender population, including nonbinary and genderqueer individuals. Approximately 1.3% of respondents identified as transgender, a sharp increase from 0.6% in 2020. Gallup’s findings indicate that 4.1% of Gen Z adults identify as transgender, compared to 1.7% of millennials and less than 1% in older generations.
Political affiliation also plays a role in LGBTQ+ identification, with 21% of liberals identifying as LGBTQ+, in contrast to just 3% of conservatives.
However, Gallup notes that the actual number of LGBTQ+ individuals may be higher, as some respondents may have felt uncomfortable disclosing their identity during a telephone survey. About 5% of respondents chose not to answer the question at all.
LGBTQ+ advocates express concern that political shifts could impact the numbers in future surveys. Dr. Mitchell R. Lunn, co-director of a Stanford LGBTQ+ health study, voiced concern that a decrease in social acceptance, particularly under the Trump administration, could lead some individuals to conceal their identities again. “I worry that it will push some people to go back into the closet,” Lunn said, emphasizing the potential setback in progress for the LGBTQ+ community.
Gabby Windey’s rise from an ER nurse and NFL cheerleader to a reality TV star and LGBTQ+ icon has been nothing short of remarkable. With her deadpan humor and candid personality, she has captured the attention of audiences everywhere, particularly on TikTok, where she has amassed more than 750,000 followers. Her content often includes biting jokes about men, the Y chromosome, and her thoughts on how lesbians are “taking over the world,” making her a standout voice in the LGBTQ+ community.
In one of her viral TikToks, Windey quips: “They say I need rescuing. Why? Because I’m gaaaAAYY? Well, no buoy, no life alert is going to save me. No, I want to stay stranded on the island of Lesbos. Nobody can save me from this rug-munching tree.” Her mix of humor, defiance, and unapologetic confidence has made her a beloved figure in the queer community.
Now, Windey is a key player on the reality competition show The Traitors, where she has quickly become one of the fan favorites. Though she was initially flying under the radar, she is now one of the last contestants vying for the $250,000 prize. The show has been filled with both beloved reality TV personalities like Bob the Drag Queen and controversial figures like Tom Sandoval. But for many, it’s Windey who has stood out as the show’s shining queer star.
Why Fans Love Gabby Windey on TikTok
Windey’s TikTok is a mix of humor, self-deprecation, and insight into her life, with a particular focus on dissecting gender and sexuality. She often uses her platform to mock traditional gender norms and men’s place in society. For example, her signature witty delivery makes fun of men being “front-facing” while declaring the Y chromosome on its way out. It’s this no-holds-barred approach to humor that has garnered her a dedicated following.
One of Windey’s most engaging qualities is her ability to discuss topics like gender, sexuality, and relationships with a lightheartedness that still makes an impact. Whether poking fun at herself or tackling serious topics with humor, she captivates her audience, making them feel like they’re in on the joke.
The “Gaggy” Nickname: A Fan-Favorite Detail
Windey has earned the affectionate nickname “Gaggy” from her die-hard fans. While the origin of this playful moniker is far from NSFW, it involves a humorous mix-up involving a visitor and a simple misspelling. This lighthearted nickname is just another example of how Windey connects with her fans on a personal level.
Windey’s entry into the world of reality TV began on The Bachelor season 26, where she gained recognition for making it to the top three before rejecting the bachelor’s final rose. She made waves after the breakup, slamming her ex during their public fallout, a moment that resonated with viewers.
Her time on The Bachelorette season 19 further solidified her place in reality TV history. During her time on the show, she got engaged to Erich Schwer, but the engagement was short-lived, with the couple breaking up just two months after the finale aired. Following her stint on The Bachelorette, Windey competed in Dancing with the Stars, finishing in second place.
Windey Comes Out as Queer
Windey’s most significant personal revelation came in August 2023 when she came out as queer during an appearance on The View. Windey explained that her attraction to women had always been “a whisper that got louder and louder,” but navigating the shame and confusion around her sexuality was a struggle.
“I think when this happens, there’s some shame surrounding it,” she admitted. “I didn’t really know to pay attention to it, but ultimately, I just want to do me, figure it out later.” When asked by host Joy Behar if she’s only interested in women now, Windey responded with a heartwarming answer: “I think so. I think it’s just my girl, she’s the best.”
Gabby Windey’s Relationship with Robby Hoffman
Windey’s relationship with queer comedian and writer Robby Hoffman has become one of the most talked-about aspects of her personal life. The two went public with their romance in August 2023 and celebrated their first anniversary in May 2024. Windey shared that the couple moved in together in September 2024 and often posts sweet messages about each other on Instagram.
Hoffman, a former Hasidic Jew turned stand-up comic, has made a name for herself in the comedy world, writing for popular shows like Workin’ Moms and Baroness Von Sketch Show. Hoffman is also working on a comedy project based on her life, titled Rivkah, Cosmoreports, which is set to be produced by Showtime and A24.
Windey’s Success on The Traitors
Windey has made it all the way to episode nine of The Traitors, and fans are hoping she’ll continue her run for the grand prize. Throughout the game, she has formed alliances with fellow queer contestants, including Selling Sunset star Chrishell Stause and wrestler Nikki Garcia. The trio, dubbed “The Bambis,” quickly became a fan favorite. However, Windey is now the only Bambi remaining in the competition.
Known for her straight-talking approach, Windey has also become a force to be reckoned with on the show. When asked about her previous reality TV experience, Windey gave an iconic response: “I’m a lesbian now.” Her candidness and unfiltered humor have only added to her growing reputation as a queer icon.
As Windey continues to make waves on The Traitors and beyond, it’s clear that her journey from reality TV contestant to LGBTQ+ role model is just beginning. Whether she’s cracking jokes about gender or using her platform to advocate for queer visibility, Gabby Windey has proven herself to be a true trailblazer.
The Kennedy Center has canceled a highly anticipated Pride concert that was set to feature the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, D.C., and the National Symphony Orchestra. The concert, slated for May 21, was intended to be a highlight of WorldPride 2025, with the two groups collaborating on a performance titled A Peacock Among Pigeons. No official reason for the cancellation has been provided.
The Gay Men’s Chorus expressed its disappointment in a statement shared on social media, calling the decision to cancel the event deeply disheartening. “We believe in the power of music to educate and uplift, to foster love, understanding, and community, and we regret that this opportunity has been taken away,” the chorus wrote. The group emphasized its continued commitment to its mission of advocating for equality through music, regardless of the setback.
“We are grateful for those who have supported us,” the chorus continued. “We will continue to seek spaces where our voices, our stories, and our music can be heard.”
The canceled performance was set to coincide with WorldPride 2025 celebrations, a global event that celebrates LGBTQ+ pride and advocacy. In response to the cancellation, the Gay Men’s Chorus announced it would now perform the piece during its upcoming Choral Festival as part of WorldPride 2025. The group also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting artistic expression that reflects the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community and the broader country.
“We will continue to sing and raise our voices for equality,” the chorus concluded.
The cancellation follows a series of changes at the Kennedy Center, particularly since President Donald Trump was appointed chairman of the venue’s board of trustees. His appointment has sparked controversy and a wave of resignations from high-profile board members. Trump, a longtime critic of certain types of performances, including drag shows, vowed to overhaul the center’s programming.
When he assumed the role of chairman, Trump made headlines by vowing to “fire” board members and publicly criticized the Kennedy Center’s past programming. He specifically targeted drag performances, accusing the venue of hosting events that he claimed were “specifically targeting our youth” and other performances that he labeled as “anti-American propaganda.”
“We’re going to make sure that it’s good and it’s not going to be woke. There’s no more woke in this country,” Trump told reporters at the time. He added, “Some of the shows were terrible, they were a disgrace,” though he admitted that he had not attended any of the shows himself.
Trump’s stance has drawn significant criticism, particularly from those who see his actions as a threat to the artistic independence of the Kennedy Center. In response to his involvement, a petition has circulated demanding that the venue protect its artistic freedom and ensure that its programming reflects the full diversity of America. The petition, which has gained more than 38,000 signatures, also urges the Kennedy Center to commit publicly to preventing political interference in its artistic decisions.
The petition also addresses concerns that the Kennedy Center’s recent actions, such as canceling events like the Pride concert, send a troubling message about who gets to create art and whose stories are deemed worthy of being told. “Targeting board members over drag performances sends a chilling message,” the petition reads, “about who gets to create art and whose stories deserve to be told.”
This controversy comes at a time when the intersection of politics and the arts is being heavily scrutinized, with many artists and cultural institutions fighting to maintain their independence in the face of political pressure. The Kennedy Center, as a national cultural institution, finds itself at the center of this debate, as artists, performers, and advocates continue to speak out about the potential dangers of political interference in the arts.
While the cancellation of the Pride concert has disappointed many, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, D.C. remains determined to continue their advocacy for equality and inclusivity. They plan to bring their message of love and community to other venues, ensuring that the spirit of the Pride concert will still be heard, even if the event was not able to take place at the Kennedy Center.
WNBA star Brittney Griner has withdrawn from her scheduled appearance at the Women Grow Leadership Summit in Maryland after discovering a troubling note in her hotel room.
Griner, who was set to speak at the event on Monday, canceled her speech after finding a piece of duct tape in the entrance to her hotel room at the Gaylord National Resort. The tape bore the words “Gay Baby Jail,” which led to concerns for her safety.
The Prince George’s County Police Department confirmed to The Advocate that it was notified by Gaylord National Resort staff about the unusual discovery. Police said they do not currently believe the note was a targeted threat against Griner.
“Detectives have learned the phrase ‘gay baby jail’ is commonly used as a reference in video games,” the police department stated. “At the time the tape was located, a large convention was taking place at the Gaylord, attracting thousands of attendees, many of whom were anime and video game enthusiasts.”
The department assured that no connection between the message and Griner has been established. They are continuing to investigate the situation, working to determine who placed the tape, when it occurred, and the intent behind it. Police also encouraged anyone with relevant information to come forward.
Griner, 33, has faced her own set of high-profile challenges in recent years. In February 2022, she was arrested in Russia after authorities found a small amount of cannabis oil in a vape cartridge while she was in Moscow to play basketball during the WNBA off-season. She was convicted on drug charges and sentenced to nine years in prison. After months of intense negotiations, Griner was released from a Russian labor camp on December 8, 2022, as part of a high-stakes prisoner exchange brokered by the Biden administration.
Chanda Macias, CEO of Women Grow, expressed support for Griner’s decision to withdraw from the summit, stating that safety must come first. “We wholeheartedly support Brittney in prioritizing her safety,” Macias told Marijuana Moment. “We are actively working with the venue and local authorities to investigate the situation and hold those responsible accountable. The safety of every woman at this conference remains our top priority.”
Macias added that the organization’s commitment to empowering women in the cannabis industry would not waver. “Women Grow was founded on the belief that women should be able to lead without fear or intimidation. We will not be silenced. We will continue on,” she emphasized.
Griner, who has previously stated that she will not play overseas again unless it is for the Olympics, was part of the U.S. women’s basketball team that won a gold medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She recently signed a one-year contract with the Atlanta Dream, following 11 seasons with the Phoenix Mercury.
The situation has drawn attention to ongoing concerns about safety and harassment faced by public figures, especially women, in both the sports and business worlds. While Griner’s decision to step back from the event was made in response to the unsettling incident, her supporters and organizers at Women Grow are committed to ensuring that similar occurrences do not disrupt the safety of those attending future conferences.
At this time, The Advocate has reached out to the Gaylord National Resort, the Women Grow Leadership Summit organizers, and a representative for Griner for further comment, but no additional statements have been issued.
This incident highlights ongoing conversations about the need for greater accountability and vigilance in public spaces, particularly as more high-profile events continue to be held in large venues that attract diverse groups of attendees. As the investigation continues, many are left to wonder what motivated the placement of such a disturbing message and whether this is part of a broader pattern of harassment in public settings.
Actor Matt Bomer has announced that production on the first season of his new sitcom, Mid-Century Modern, has wrapped. The series, described as a gay-themed comedy in the spirit of The Golden Girls, is set to make its debut on Hulu next month.
Bomer, known for his role in Fellow Travelers, took to Instagram to share the news with fans, posting, “That’s a wrap on season one of Mid-Century Modern.” The actor expressed his excitement about the show, which features a star-studded cast that includes Nathan Lane, Nathan Lee Graham, and the late Tony Award- and Golden Globe-winning actress Linda Lavin.
Lavin, who was 87 when she passed away in December, had been battling recently discovered lung cancer, her representative confirmed. Following her death, Bomer honored the actress on Instagram, remembering her as “an icon, a phenomenal artist, and a deeply caring human being.” He continued, “I’m grateful to have been touched by her brilliance. She will remain an inspiration to so many (myself included) and will be greatly missed by all of us.”
In addition to Lavin, the cast of Mid-Century Modern includes other notable figures from the entertainment world, such as Nathan Lane and Nathan Lee Graham, both known for their LGBTQ+ advocacy and extensive careers in television and theater.
Bomer, who has been married to publicist Simon Halls since 2011, previously described the sitcom as “a dream come true” for him. He also teased that the series includes references to The Golden Girls as well as other iconic TV characters from the past. “It’s sort of a hybrid, but I would definitely say it’s a spiritual cousin,” Bomer explained, hinting at the show’s nostalgic yet fresh take on classic sitcom formulas.
Mid-Century Modern follows three gay men who retire together in Palm Springs, California. The series explores their lives in the desert, balancing humor with meaningful themes of friendship, love, and aging. Bomer has spoken about the significance of the show’s representation of gay characters, calling it a groundbreaking project that will resonate with a wide audience.
As fans eagerly anticipate the show’s release, many have expressed their excitement on social media. Bomer’s post about finishing production sparked a flood of comments from followers who can’t wait to see the series. “Cannot wait” was a common sentiment in the replies, with fans sharing their enthusiasm for the unique premise and star-studded cast.
All 10 episodes of Mid-Century Modern are set to be released on Hulu on March 28. With its blend of comedy, heart, and poignant moments, the series is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated shows of the spring.
A new satirical drag competition series is set to captivate fans of drag culture this week, and it’s not your typical reality show.
“Drag House Rules,” which premieres Friday, February 21, on OUTtv, is shaking up the genre with a blend of over-the-top drama, alliances, and unpredictable moments. The show brings together a star-studded cast of seven drag queens—six alumni from RuPaul’s Drag Race and one winner from The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula—to live under one roof and compete for a mysterious $100,000 prize package.
“Drag House Rules” takes what fans love about drag competitions and turns it on its head. According to the show’s synopsis, the queens will battle it out in a series of challenges that soon give way to chaos, secrets, and broken alliances. As the game progresses, the competition becomes increasingly unpredictable, with each contestant trying to outwit the others to stay on top.
The premise sounds familiar: drag queens competing for a grand prize. But the reality of the show may not be what it seems. Entertainment Weekly, which unveiled an exclusive preview of the series on Wednesday, February 19, suggests the show may be a scripted satire of drag reality TV rather than a traditional competition.
In fact, the preview includes playful hints that the series might not follow the typical reality format. The show’s creators appear to be poking fun at the genre, with quotes like “this ‘competition’ series might not be all that it seems” and “this peculiar ‘contest.’” Furthermore, John Mark Hostetler, the co-director of Trixie & Katya Live – The Last Show, is behind the direction of “Drag House Rules,” signaling that the show is likely a scripted comedy rather than a straightforward competition.
The trailer for the series supports this theory, showcasing the queens acting in exaggerated, over-the-top ways. In the preview, the queens are seen engaging in heated arguments, physical altercations, and coming up with new catchphrases—all while hosted by Tony Moore. The tone appears to be more playful and theatrical, embracing the campy, outrageous side of drag culture.
While the show may not deliver the same kind of nail-biting competition as RuPaul’s Drag Race, it is sure to appeal to fans who love drag and enjoy humor, satire, and unexpected twists. The series promises to deliver an entertaining mix of chaos, wit, and heart, all while giving drag fans a chance to see some of their favorite queens in a different light.
“Drag House Rules” joins a growing trend of drag-related shows pushing boundaries and exploring new formats, from reality competitions to scripted series. The show is designed to keep viewers on the edge of their seats with each episode, offering a unique and humorous take on the popular drag competition genre.
With the premiere just days away, fans are eagerly anticipating the debut of “Drag House Rules.” If the exclusive preview is any indication, this show is going to be full of surprises, laughs, and plenty of dramatic moments to keep viewers talking long after the credits roll.
Don’t miss the premiere of Drag House Rules on OUTtv this Friday, February 21.
Alice Oseman, creator of the popular Netflix series Heartstopper, is working behind the scenes to secure a fourth season of the beloved teen romance series.
During a recent appearance at the Waterstones Children’s Book Festival, Oseman shared her optimism about the future of the show. “I’m working very hard behind the scenes to get us a renewal for Heartstopper,” she said. “It is still ongoing. We don’t have a final answer yet, but there are so many people behind the scenes who are working really hard to make it happen. We’re feeling optimistic. We’re feeling hopeful.” (per @heurtstopper on TikTok)
The third season of Heartstopper, which stars Joe Locke as Charlie and Kit Connor as Nick, premiered last fall. However, fans were left without any official confirmation about the fate of a fourth season. Based on Oseman’s webcomic and graphic novels, the show has become a hit for its heartfelt portrayal of a teenage romance, alongside a strong, diverse cast of queer characters.
The series focuses on the developing relationship between two classmates at Truham Grammar School, Charlie and Nick. Alongside them, characters like trans girl Elle (Yasmin Finney), lesbian couple Darcy (Kizzy Edgell) and Tara (Corinna Brown), and the asexual and aromantic Isaac (Tobie Donovan) add depth and representation to the story. The third season also saw Jonathan Bailey in a guest role as an Instagram influencer who captures Charlie’s attention.
While Oseman’s comments about the ongoing efforts for a fourth season offer hope to fans, she has also been clear about her intentions regarding the show’s future. If Heartstopper is renewed for a fourth season, Oseman says it will likely be the series’ final chapter.
“I really, really just want to tell the end of the story on TV and bring all of those characters, their stories, to a close,” Oseman said during an October 2024 appearance on the I’ve Never Said This Before podcast. “So fingers crossed.”
When asked by podcast host Tommy DiDario if the fourth season would indeed be the end, Oseman responded with certainty: “Yeah, for sure.”
Alice Oseman confirms a potential 4th season of Heartstopper would be the last. New interview with #AliceOseman & #PatrickWalters dropping on my podcast “I’ve Never Said This Before,” Tuesday 10/22. Subscribe now on Apple Podcasts & Spotify so you don’t miss it:
Spotify:… pic.twitter.com/RgPbn1M0An
Fans of Heartstopper continue to rally around the series, hoping for more episodes that will offer resolution to the characters’ journeys. While Oseman remains hopeful and committed to the show’s continuation, it remains to be seen whether a renewal will be granted.
As the wait continues, Heartstopper fans can take solace in Oseman’s dedication to bringing the story to a fitting conclusion, ensuring the characters and their experiences are fully realized.
A new poll reveals that the Trump administration’s stance on transgender rights, particularly its ongoing ban on transgender people serving in the U.S. military, may be out of touch with the views of most Americans.
Released by Gallup on Monday, the poll highlights growing public support for transgender individuals in the military, even as Trump moves forward with an executive order reinstating a ban on transgender men, women, and nonbinary individuals from serving in any capacity. The results of the poll came as Trump rolled out his latest executive action, reinforcing his previous 2017 directive that was overturned by President Joe Biden in 2021.
The Gallup poll shows that 58 percent of U.S. adults still support allowing transgender individuals to serve in the military, despite a slight decline in overall support since 2019 when it peaked at 71 percent. The findings indicate a significant partisan divide, with Republicans and independents showing much lower levels of support compared to Democrats.
While support for transgender service members has decreased over the past few years, particularly among Republicans, the data still shows that a majority of Americans favor transgender inclusion in the armed forces. The percentage of Republicans who support trans inclusion in the military has dropped significantly, falling from 43 percent in 2019 and 2021 to just 23 percent in 2025. Independents, too, have shown a decline in support, with 62 percent in favor of allowing transgender people to serve, down from 78 percent in 2019 and 66 percent in 2021.
Despite the decrease in support among these groups, the poll shows that Democrats remain overwhelmingly supportive of transgender people serving openly in the military. A solid 84 percent of Democrats expressed support for trans military service, though this is down slightly from 88 percent in 2019 and 87 percent in 2021.
In late January, Trump signed an executive order that reinstates his ban on transgender people serving in the military. The order claims that transgender identity is a mental disorder and describes transgender individuals as unfit for service, labeling them as “dishonorable,” “selfish,” “deceitful,” and “undisciplined.” The policy is expected to affect between 8,000 and 15,000 active-duty transgender service members.
Transgender individuals were first allowed to serve openly in the military under the Obama administration in 2016, which ended the Pentagon’s longstanding ban on out transgender servicemembers. However, Trump reinstated the ban during his first term in 2017, and the U.S. Supreme Court upheld it on procedural grounds. In 2021, President Biden lifted the ban, allowing transgender people to reenter the military and serve openly once again.
Following Trump’s latest executive order, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a memo earlier this month to senior military leaders, directing them to halt the recruitment of transgender individuals and to suspend gender-affirming medical treatments for current service members diagnosed with gender dysphoria.
The implementation of the ban has been met with significant legal challenges. Two federal lawsuits were filed in late January to stop Trump’s military ban. The first lawsuit, filed by the LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations GLAD Law and the National Center for Lesbian Rights, represents six active-duty service members and two individuals who wish to enlist. Another lawsuit, filed by Lambda Legal and the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) on February 6, challenges the ban on behalf of six more active-duty service members and one individual who wants to join the military.
The legal battles highlight the ongoing fight for transgender rights, particularly in the military, where advocates argue that transgender individuals should be allowed to serve openly without fear of discrimination. The lawsuits aim to prevent the reinstatement of the ban, which they argue violates the constitutional rights of transgender service members and applicants.
As public opinion shifts, the debate over transgender inclusion in the military is expected to continue to be a key issue in the political landscape. While Trump’s policy and its support among Republicans face challenges from both the public and legal systems, the Gallup poll underscores the growing acceptance of transgender individuals in all areas of public life, including the military.
With the ongoing legal challenges and shifting public sentiment, the future of transgender military service remains uncertain. The continued efforts to protect the rights of transgender service members could shape the military’s policies for years to come, and the push for inclusion remains a critical point of focus for LGBTQ+ advocates and allies.
New interview with 
