The FBI is reportedly weighing whether to classify transgender individuals under a new domestic threat category, following calls from conservative organizations aligned with Project 2025. According to a September 18 report by journalist Ken Klippenstein, the agency is discussing adding transgender people to its “Nihilistic Violent Extremists” (NVE) list—a category created earlier this year to identify ideologically motivated violence.
The reported internal discussions come in the wake of the fatal shooting of far-right commentator Charlie Kirk, after which conspiracy theories began circulating about the suspect’s alleged connection to a trans roommate. Officials confirmed no evidence linking the shooting to transgender identity, yet right-wing figures continue to amplify false claims.
A petition by the Heritage Foundation and its Oversight Project division is pressuring the FBI to establish a new designation: “Transgender Ideology-Inspired Violent Extremism” (TIVE). Critics warn the label is so vaguely defined it could be used to criminalize speech or activism opposing anti-trans legislation.
Lead to increased surveillance, harassment, or profiling of trans residents and activists.
Critics say such a designation—lacking credible data or justification—would politicize law enforcement and open the door to targeting people simply for their identity or advocacy. In fact, national data shows no measurable pattern of mass violence connected to transgender individuals. According to the Gun Violence Archive, the number of LGBTQ+ suspects in mass shootings remains in the single digits out of more than 5,000 incidents tracked.
As of now, the FBI has not confirmed any official designation or policy change.