Progressive Candidate Addresses Controversial Health Issue
A progressive candidate is trying to unseat a Republican in a competitive congressional district by addressing a contentious topic that has been challenging for Democrats. Dr. Tina Shah, an emergency room physician and former official in the Biden administration, appears to endorse taxpayer-funded gender reassignment surgeries for minors in a video that surfaced.
When asked about whether children should have the “right to transgender healthcare,” Shah responded affirmatively, stating, “Of course this is the case.” She believes that healthcare should be accessible for everyone, including transgender youth.
Shah is one of four Democratic candidates competing against incumbent Rep. Tom Keene Jr. (R-N.J.) in the upcoming midterm elections. Keene’s suburban district is viewed as one of the most competitive in the country.
Her support for “transgender medical care” aligns with views expressed by her former boss, Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, who has criticized attempts by Republican-led states to restrict child gender transition procedures. Shah worked closely with Murthy as a senior advisor during 2021 and 2022.
The National Republican Congressional Committee swiftly condemned Shah’s stance on the issue. A spokesperson labeled her as a “radical” and claimed her views are disconnected from the values of families in New Jersey.
Shah’s remarks come amid discussions among some Democrats about the potential political fallout from the party’s leftward shift, especially concerning how voters perceived the party’s stance during the 2024 election.
Many major medical organizations, which had previously supported child sex change procedures, are now taking a more cautious approach. Notably, the American Medical Association suggested earlier this year that such procedures should mainly be reserved for adults. Nevertheless, Congressional Democrats have yet to offer clear positions regarding transgender issues.
In 2025, a few Democrats sided with Republicans to support a bill aimed at criminalizing child gender reassignment, with Keene being among the majority of Republicans backing that legislation.
The nonpartisan Cook Political Report has characterized Keene’s re-election as critical, particularly after election forecasts showed Governor Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.) leading in the district.
Shah has reported around $1.4 million in campaign funds, which is comparable to her Democratic opponents Rebecca Bennett and Brian Barrera, both of whom are also in the race for the nomination.
Keene has a smaller campaign fund relative to his challengers, with approximately $3.4 million available. He has been facing scrutiny after missing numerous votes in Congress due to health issues.
As of mid-March, Keene has missed 52 roll call votes, an absence rate of 100%, according to monitoring site GovTrack. He has expressed optimism regarding his recovery, stating that he looks forward to returning to work soon.
