- Gov. Gavin Newsom’s comments on transgender athletes during his podcast launch have drawn some criticism from fellow Democrats. His remarks centered on fairness in women’s sports.
- Newsom expressed both support for fairness in sports and sympathy for transgender individuals.
- A New York Times poll found that a majority of Americans, including 67% of Democrats, believe transgender athletes should not compete in women’s sports.
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Gov. Gavin Newsom launched his new podcast, and his first episode quickly became a focal point of controversy. During a conversation with conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, Newsom was asked if he would support a policy barring biological males from participating in female sports.
“Would you do something like that? Would you say no men in female sports?” Kirk asked.
“I think it’s an issue of fairness. I completely agree with you on that. It is an issue of fairness; it’s deeply unfair,” Newsom responded.
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This exchange led to widespread criticism and sharp headlines.
Controversy in headlines
- The Los Angeles Times: “Newsom’s remarks about trans athletes has some Democrats ‘sickened and frustrated’”
- The Guardian: “Newsom condemned for ‘throwing trans people under bus’ after sports comment”
- Forbes: “California’s Newsom—Long-Time Gay Rights Ally—Opposes Trans Athletes In Women’s Sports
Further comments from Newsom
Newsom noted that he has four children, including two daughters, and his wife, who played college soccer. He reaffirmed his stance, stating, “The issue of fairness is completely legit.”
However, in the same discussion, Newsom also expressed empathy for transgender individuals.
“That’s easy to call out, the unfairness of it. But there’s also humility and grace that these poor people are more likely to commit suicide,” Newsom said. “The way people talk down to vulnerable communities is an issue I have a hard time with as well. Both things I can hold in my hand.”
Some Democratic backlash
Some members of Newsom’s own party condemned his remarks, including California’s Legislative LGBTQ Caucus. The caucus released a statement expressing their disapproval:
“We woke up profoundly sickened and frustrated by these remarks. All students deserve the academic and health benefits of sports activity, and until Donald Trump began obsessing about it, playing on a team consistent with one’s gender has not been a problem since the standard was passed in 2013.”
California’s Legislative LGBTQ Caucus
A Democratic state senator, Scott Wiener, also criticized Newsom’s comments.
“The Governor has had many courageous moments over the decades supporting LGBTQ people,” Wiener said. “This is not one of those moments. Charlie Kirk is a vile bigot, and standing with him on this issue is profoundly disturbing.”
How do Americans feel about Newsom?
Speculation continues about Newsom’s potential candidacy in the 2028 presidential election. Some suggest his remarks on transgender athletes may resonate with voters.
A recent New York Times poll found that 79% of people believe biological males should not participate in women’s sports. Additionally, the poll revealed that 67% of Democrats agree that transgender individuals should not compete in women’s sports.
