DOJ Considers Firearm Ban for Transgender Individuals Following Shooting Incident

The Department of Justice is exploring the possibility of restricting firearm purchases by transgender individuals. This comes after a shooting incident on August 27 at a Catholic school in Minnesota, where a transgender man opened fire on children.

Robin Westman, who identifies as a woman, tragically killed two children during a mass at the Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis and wounded 21 others before taking his own life. This event has intensified discussions surrounding the connections between transgender identities, mental health, and violence.

The DOJ’s potential ban aims to “ensure that mentally ill individuals experiencing gender dysphoria will not have access to firearms while they are in a state of instability,” as noted by sources.

Records indicate that the shooter’s mother had applied to change his name from Robert Paul to Robin M when he was still a minor. According to reports, Westman had expressed criticism of his own transgender identity, linking it to mental health struggles and familial disapproval. He even advised against allowing children to transition before they reach a certain age.

This incident echoes a similar tragedy from 2023 when another transgender individual, Audrey Hale, fatally shot three children and three teachers at Covenant School in Nashville.

Some sources within the DOJ have mentioned that the push for this possible ban aligns with broader efforts to implement common-sense gun control measures. A spokesperson confirmed that various proposals are under consideration but did not elaborate on specifics.

Under Attorney General Bondy’s guidance, the department is reviewing multiple strategies to reduce the likelihood of violence, particularly in educational settings.

However, the approach has sparked criticism from some Democrats. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey condemned what he perceived as animosity toward the transgender community, suggesting that it was an inappropriate response to the situation.

Since taking office, President Trump has begun reversing various policies related to transgender issues established during the Biden administration. These changes include classifying gender dysphoria as a medical condition that disqualifies individuals from military service.

The DOJ has not commented further on this matter as discussions continue.