The Trump administration is reportedly exploring measures to restrict gun ownership for transgender individuals. This discussion follows a tragic shooting at a Catholic school in Minneapolis, where a transgender woman opened fire, resulting in the deaths of two children and injuries to at least 21 others.

Sources indicate that officials within the Department of Justice (DOJ) are considering legal options to classify transgender individuals as mentally ill, which could lead to restrictions on their Second Amendment rights. This proposal is seen as a continuation of the administration's previous actions against transgender rights, including an executive order that barred transgender individuals from serving in the military.

One DOJ official mentioned that a potential approach could involve declaring transgender individuals as mentally unfit to possess firearms. The official stated, "The goal is to ensure that mentally ill individuals suffering from gender dysphoria are unable to obtain firearms while they are unstable and unwell."

However, any such proposal would likely face significant legal challenges. Current federal law stipulates that gun rights can only be revoked from individuals deemed "mentally defective" by a judge, a high standard that complicates the idea of a blanket ban on a specific group.

The Minneapolis shooting has reignited debates about gun control and mental health. Critics argue that the majority of mass shootings in the U.S. are not linked to transgender individuals. Despite this, some conservative figures have claimed that transgender people are disproportionately responsible for such incidents.

The DOJ's discussions are still in the preliminary stages, and officials acknowledge the potential for legal complications. Many Republican lawmakers and gun rights advocates have historically opposed measures aimed at restricting gun access based on mental health concerns, fearing that such policies could be misapplied.

In addition to the gun ownership discussions, the Trump administration has taken steps to limit transgender rights in various areas, including healthcare and military service. The administration's actions have drawn criticism from advocates for transgender rights, who argue that these measures are discriminatory and harmful.

As the situation develops, the implications of these discussions on both gun rights and transgender rights remain to be seen.