As the race for California’s governorship intensifies, candidate Tom Steyer has taken a firm stance in support of transgender athletes participating in high school sports. In a recent podcast interview, Steyer argued that excluding these athletes could exacerbate the mental health challenges they face.
Steyer stated, “I’m totally in favor of trans athletes in high school,” during his appearance on the “I’ve Had It” podcast. He emphasized the vulnerability and stress experienced by transgender youth, noting that nearly half have attempted suicide. “We’re gonna punish those kids, we’re gonna cut them off from team sport. It’s like, no we’re not,” he added.
In a conversation with CBS Los Angeles, Steyer criticized what he described as a “right-wing attempt” to smear transgender individuals, asserting that the issue is not a widespread epidemic. He expressed empathy for those who feel rejected and unaccepted, highlighting the dire statistics regarding suicide attempts among transgender youth.
Democratic Candidates’ Views
Steyer is part of a crowded Democratic field aiming to maintain party control of the governorship after Governor Gavin Newsom’s term ends. Other candidates, including former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter and former HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, have echoed parts of Steyer’s position. Porter emphasized the role of youth sports in building character and teamwork, while Becerra called for continued protection of certain classes under existing state law.
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan acknowledged potential unfairness in certain situations, such as a biological male competing against his daughter in soccer, but criticized the use of the issue as a political tool. Former California State Assembly Speaker Antonio Villaraigosa dismissed the debate as a “non-issue” but expressed his belief that biological males who have undergone puberty should not compete in women’s sports.
Other Democratic candidates, such as former California State Controller Betty Yee and California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, stressed the importance of fairness and inclusion, with Thurmond offering strong support for transgender athletes.
Republican Opposition
On the Republican side, candidates like Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco advocate for overturning legislation that allows transgender athletes to compete based on gender identity, highlighting the ongoing debate within California’s political landscape.
If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
