Latest court victory brings us closer to discovering who was actually behind Trump's trans ban

Latest ruling against Trump's trans ban could ensnare the anti-LGBT right.

Amidst all of the nonsense of the latest Trump Administration scandal, a ruling took place this week which probably means further doom for Trump's nonsensical ban of transgender troops. What makes this ruling extra special is that it has the potential to wreak havoc on the anti-LGBTQ right.

From NBC News:

A federal judge in Maryland has denied an effort by President Donald J. Trump's administration to shield information it used to implement a ban on transgender people in the military. The American Civil Liberties Union sued the administration on behalf of a dozen transgender people who are currently serving or want to serve in the armed forces. U.S. Magistrate Judge A. David Copperthite ruled Tuesday that the documents are relevant to the administration's intent. He says whether the ban was for military purposes or for purely political and discriminatory purposes "is at the very heart of this litigation." The ACLU contends the ban violates the constitutional guarantees of equal protection and substantive due process by singling out transgender individuals for unequal and discriminatory treatment. 

The lawsuit is one of several challenging a ban that Trump announced on Twitter on July 26, 2017, citing “consultation with my Generals and military experts” and the “tremendous medical costs and disruption” of transgender service members.

'LGBTQ parents running for public office in high number, long live Aretha Franklin,' & other Thur midday news briefs

Editor's note - two things will be accomplished by today's news briefs. First, the usual postings. And also a tribute to one of the greats as she transitioned to her eternal reward - Aretha Franklin.

More than 2 Dozen LGBTQ Parents Running for Office in 2018 - One aspect of LGBTQ primary victories which should be noted. LGBTQ parents were also the big victors. From a good friend of mine and fellow GLAAD Media Award recipient Mombian is the list. When they decide laws regarding our families, these folks want to be on the front lines to give us a voice. THAT is one aspect of how we win and secure the future for ourselves, our families, and especially our children.

Researchers Find Transgender Veterans Are as Healthy as Their Cisgender Peers - Yep. And a recent ruling brings us closer to a goal of mine. Hopefully if all goes well, I will post it this afternoon.

The bizarre way Texas conservatives are fighting against marriage equality - That's why we need more of us in the Texas legislature and other legislatures across the country. 

Global backlash against gay conversion therapy gathers pace - BOOM! 

 And today, the world is saddened over the passing of the legendary Miss Aretha Franklin. True story - the first album I could remember listening to was her 1976 album Sparkle. Specifically as a gay black man, Aretha always touched my heart with her enduring talent, loving nature, and attention to style. It was truly "all about the music" to her, which was why she endured all of these years. All of the tributes, every one of them much deserved, will come in the next days. Allow me to give my own little one.

REST IN POWER: Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin dies at 76 

Aretha Franklin, The Undisputed ‘Queen Of Soul,’ Dead At 76

31 Photos To Commemorate Aretha Franklin’s Life And Music