Controversy Erupts Over Federal Judge's Protest Against Gender Policy

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is seeking to terminate a New York administrative judge, Karen Ortiz, following her resistance to policies aligned with the Trump administration. Ortiz notably opposed an executive order distinguishing male and female as 'immutable' sexes.

In response to President Donald Trump's directive, the EEOC deprioritized cases involving transgender discrimination, a significant shift from previous practices. Ortiz's vocal dissent, including a mass email to peers and remarks against EEOC's Acting Chair Andrea Lucas, led to her administrative leave.

Despite notice of termination over 'unprofessional conduct', Ortiz remains defiant, strategizing with legal and union representatives to counteract the agency's decision. This case underscores ongoing tensions within federal agencies regarding compliance with White House mandates.

(With inputs from agencies.)