New Hampshire Teens Challenge Trump’s Sports Ban in Landmark Lawsuit
Concord, NH – June 10, 2025 – By Holly Ramer, Associated Press
Two New Hampshire teenagers, Parker Tirrell, 16, and Iris Turmelle, 14, have made headlines as the first to add former President Donald Trump to their ongoing lawsuit challenging both a state ban on transgender athletes in girls’ sports and his executive order titled “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports.” The lawsuit, initiated in February, seeks to allow the plaintiffs to participate in high school girls’ sports despite the restrictive policies, claiming they violate constitutional rights and Title IX provisions on gender discrimination.
In a recent filing, the Trump administration requested to be dismissed from the lawsuit, arguing that the teens lack “constitutional standing.” Deputy Associate Attorney General Richard Lawson emphasized that there is no immediate harm since the federal government has not taken action to enforce the executive order in New Hampshire. The teens, however, contend that the policies create an environment of discrimination against transgender individuals.
Trump’s executive order broadly directs federal agencies to ensure compliance with Title IX based on the gender assigned at birth, which the plaintiffs’ attorneys argue unfairly targets transgender athletes and violates equal protection guarantees.
Despite being a small demographic—representing about 1.4% of U.S. teens aged 13 to 17—the impact of such policies is significant, as many states have enacted similar bans. Supporters claim these measures promote fairness in women’s sports, while opponents argue they perpetuate discrimination.
Both Tirrell and Turmelle maintain that they do not possess inherent advantages over their peers. Turmelle noted her lack of athletic success, emphasizing her commitment to fair play. The case continues to draw attention, as it highlights the complex interplay of sports, gender identity, and federal policy in contemporary America.
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