Trumpism and the Erasure of the Third Gender: A Conservative Approach to Gender Politics

Abstract

This article explores how Trumpism has affected gender politics, focusing on how conservative policies have erased third-gender identities. It looks at the historical and cultural acceptance of third genders and contrasts the restrictive nature of Trump’s executive order from January 20, 2025, with the inclusiveness of the rest of the world. The order dismisses gender identity as a political invention, defining gender as exclusively male or female. By analysing the legal, social, and psychological effects of the policy, the article highlights the LGBTQI+ community’s experiences with limited legal recognition, restricted rights, and increased social marginalisation. Additionally, the article looks at the global trend towards gender inclusion and compares Trump’s gender policies with previous progressive policies, especially those of the Obama and Biden administrations. The conclusion of the article discusses the wider effects of conservative gender politics on the rights of third-gender people.