Newsom Discusses Gender Identity Politics with Ben Shapiro

On Thursday, California Governor Gavin Newsom engaged in a conversation with Ben Shapiro, the founder of Daily Wire, about a pivotal issue for Democrats: whether boys can become girls. Shapiro pointed out that one of the Democratic Party’s significant shortcomings in the last election was their reluctance to take a definitive stance on this topic.

The two debated a policy allowing teachers to keep parents uninformed about their children’s social transitions at school, though Newsom suggested this concern affects only a small number of individuals. “We’re dealing with a very limited number of people grappling with gender identity concerns,” he remarked. Newsom echoed a sentiment from Governor Spencer Cox, emphasizing that there seems to be excessive focus on a fleeting number of cases.

Shapiro countered, expressing that discussions involving the idea that boys can be girls pose an obstacle in politics. He suggested that such statements could alienate people from engaging with broader issues. Newsom acknowledged this viewpoint, stating, “If that’s a hurdle in hearing opinions on other matters, I get it. That’s just how it is.”

Shapiro pressed further, questioning why acknowledging the differences between boys and girls seemed so challenging. Newsom responded, indicating he understood Shapiro’s argument and later characterized him as someone who prioritizes facts over empathy.

Newsom has shown complexity in his views on related matters lately. For instance, in a previous discussion, he labeled the inclusion of biological males in women’s sports as an equity dilemma, describing it as “grossly unfair.” He admitted that not many people resonate with his position, but stressed that his opinions stemmed from personal conviction, noting he has been a strong advocate for the LGBTQ community. He highlighted that he wants the best for transgender kids, sharing that he has a transgender godson.