Trump Responds to Trans Athletes’ Wins in California
On Tuesday, former President Trump criticized the inclusion of transgender athletes in California’s girls’ high school sports, following recent victories by trans athletes at a state championship. His comments came after AB Hernandez from Yulpa Valley High School achieved first place in both the women’s high jump and triple jump during a tournament on May 31st.
“Biological males secured big wins, even though I cautioned against allowing this,” Trump stated in a message that was shared on social media. He hinted at potential repercussions, saying, “A hefty fine will be imposed since Governor Newsom fully understands the situation!”
Under mounting pressure from Trump’s administration, the California Interscholastic Federation recently revised its rules to permit biological males to compete against female athletes. This change has led to some confusion, as it allowed Hernandez to share the top spot with another competitor for the championship medals.
Hernandez achieved a height of 5 feet, 7 inches in the high jump, and although there were some unsuccessful attempts, fellow athletes Jillene Wetteland and Lelanie Laruelle matched that height, making for a shared podium moment. In the triple jump, Hernandez reached a distance of 42 feet, 2 inches, with her closest competitor, Kiragrant Hatcher, landing at 40 feet, 5 inches.
Trump had previously threatened that federal funding might be restricted if California does not adhere to a February executive order aimed at protecting women’s sports. He also suggested that he would insist on strict compliance regarding transgender participation, although he refrained from specifically naming Hernandez.
In response to recent developments, Newsom’s office did not provide immediate comments. In a past exchange, the governor expressed that allowing transgender athletes to compete with biological women felt “deeply unfair.”
Meanwhile, the Trump administration has been scrutinizing similar situations across states, including an inquiry into Maine regarding potential violations of Title IX in relation to transgender athletes. This ongoing investigation has implications for substantial federal funding that could be at risk.
Recently, the Department of Justice announced plans to probe California’s Success and Opportunity Act, which permits transgender individuals to compete in women’s sporting events, as it may contravene Title IX. The state’s Attorney General has warned of possible legal action regarding this policy.
