In a recent appearance on ABC’s “The View,”
acclaimed transgender actress Laverne Cox voiced strong opposition to President Donald Trump’s latest executive orders affecting the transgender community.
Cox, known for her role in “Orange Is the New Black,” labeled these directives as “illegal” and expressed deep concern over their implications.
Cox was joined by comedian George Wallace to discuss their upcoming television series, “Clean Slate,”
which centers on a father’s reunion with his child—portrayed by Cox—who has transitioned into a woman.
The conversation shifted to politics when co-host Ana Navarro commended Cox for her seamless integration of activism and acting, prompting Cox to address the administration’s recent actions.
In January 2025, President Trump signed an executive order titled “Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government.” This order establishes the U.S. policy of recognizing only two sexes, male and female, asserting that men and women are biologically distinct. It also provides guidance on how federal agencies should implement these directives.
Additionally, in February 2025, the president enacted the “No Men in Women’s Sports” executive order. This directive mandates that public institutions determine eligibility for women’s sports teams based on an individual’s biological sex assigned at birth, rather than gender identity or hormone levels.
Cox highlighted the escalating discrimination against transgender individuals, noting that it began at the state level years ago. “It started at the state level, many years ago,” she remarked. “You know, what is it? 26 states banned ‘gender-affirming care’ for young people. This has been happening at the state level for many years. So, I’ve been devastated because trans families have had to relocate for many years, parents have been criminalized, so it’s been devastating. Now it’s happening on a federal level.” citeturn0search0
Expressing her dismay, Cox stated, “I think in terms of the administration and all this propaganda and lies—everything he’s doing is illegal, by the way.” She voiced hope that these executive orders would face legal challenges due to their questionable legality.
Cox emphasized that transgender individuals constitute less than 1% of the population and are not responsible for broader societal issues. “At the end of the day, trans people are less than 1% of the population and trans people are not the reason you can’t afford eggs, that you can’t afford healthcare. We’re not the reason you can’t buy a house or your rent’s too high,” she asserted. “I think they’re focused on the wrong 1%. I think the other one percent is the reason for all those things.” citeturn0search0
The actress also offered words of encouragement to her transgender peers, urging them not to succumb to victimization. She highlighted the resilience and solidarity within the transgender community, referencing a legacy of ancestors who have navigated adversity. Cox advised focusing on community support, limiting exposure to distressing news, and drawing strength from shared experiences.
Cox’s remarks underscore the ongoing debate surrounding transgender rights in the United States. As the federal government enacts policies that many view as restrictive, advocates like Cox continue to champion the rights and recognition of transgender individuals, emphasizing the importance of legal challenges and community resilience in the face of adversity.
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