What Did Gavin Newsom Say About Trans Athletes on His Podcast?
Gov. Gavin Newsom has a new podcast, "This is Gavin Newsom," and with it, a new political firestorm. In the first episode, the governor hosted conservative commentator and MAGA activist Charlie Kirk, and their conversation sparked controversy when Newsom called transgender women’s participation in women’s sports "deeply unfair."
What Exactly Did Newsom Say?
Kirk brought up the topic of transgender athletes, arguing that it’s unfair for people born biologically male to compete against biological females and that Democrats’ stance on the issue is out of touch with most Americans. Newsom responded, saying, "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."
When Kirk asked if Newsom would speak out against AB Hernandez, a transgender athlete who is likely to win the California state championship in the long jump, Newsom replied, "I’m not wrestling with the fairness issue. I totally agree with you. … I revere sports, and so the issue of fairness is completely legit."
Criticism from California Democrats was Swift
Newsom’s comments were met with swift criticism from some California Democrats, who accused the governor of abandoning a vulnerable minority group. State Assemblymember Chris Ward and Sen. Caroline Menjivar, co-chairs of the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus, released a joint statement calling Newsom’s remarks "anti-transgender" and "deeply disturbing."
State Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) also released a statement, saying, "This is not one of those moments. Charlie Kirk is a vile bigot, and standing with him on this issue is profoundly disturbing."
The Controversy Surrounding Transgender Athletes
The issue of transgender athletes in sports has become a focal point of MAGA politics, with President Trump recently signing an executive order barring transgender female athletes from competing in women’s or girls’ sporting events. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has also issued a policy change, banning transgender women from competing in college women’s sports.
Conclusion
Gavin Newsom’s comments on his podcast have sparked a political firestorm, with some critics accusing him of abandoning a vulnerable minority group. The controversy surrounding transgender athletes in sports is a complex issue, with opinions divided on both sides. As the debate continues, it’s essential to approach the topic with sensitivity, respect, and an understanding of the impact it has on individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What did Gavin Newsom say about transgender athletes on his podcast?
- Newsom called transgender women’s participation in women’s sports "deeply unfair" and agreed with Charlie Kirk’s perspective on the issue.
- What was the context of the conversation?
- The conversation was part of Newsom’s podcast, "This is Gavin Newsom," and featured conservative commentator and MAGA activist Charlie Kirk.
- How did California Democrats respond to Newsom’s comments?
- Some California Democrats, including state Assemblymember Chris Ward and Sen. Caroline Menjivar, criticized Newsom’s remarks, calling them "anti-transgender" and "deeply disturbing."
