California gubernatorial candidate Tom Steyer expressed support for transgender athletes participating in high school sports during a podcast appearance. Steyer emphasized the importance of including transgender youth in athletic activities to help address their emotional and mental health challenges. He stated, “I’m totally in favor of trans athletes in high school,” during a conversation with “I’ve Had It” podcast host Jennifer Welch.
Steyer highlighted the vulnerability and stress faced by transgender youth and argued against excluding them from team sports, noting the significant risk of suicide among these individuals. He addressed similar points in an interview with CBS Los Angeles, describing dissenters as engaging in a “right-wing attempt” to stigmatize transgender people.
The concern is not widespread but rather a targeted effort to marginalize vulnerable individuals
, Steyer argued.
Steyer is one of several Democratic candidates seeking to maintain control of the governorship following incumbent Governor Gavin Newsom’s term. The list of Democratic contenders includes Antonio Villaraigosa, Katie Porter, Xavier Becerra, and others such as former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, former HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, and former California State Assembly Speaker Antonio Villaraigosa.
Many Democratic hopefuls echoed Steyer’s standpoint. Porter suggested that youth sports should focus on character building and teamwork. Becerra supported existing state laws allowing participation based on gender identity and urged continuous protection of specific groups.
Other candidates offered more nuanced views. San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan expressed concern over using the issue to gain political advantage. He recognized potential fairness issues, such as a biological male playing against his daughter in soccer.
Villaraigosa downplayed the debate as a “non-issue,” though opposing discrimination and suggesting biological males who have experienced puberty should not compete in women’s sports. Betty Yee advocated for fairness while ensuring inclusivity. Tony Thurmond supported transgender athletes with a definitive stance.
Republican candidates Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco advocate for reversing laws supportive of transgender inclusion in athletics.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
Source: Taylor Penley, associate editor at Fox News.