The North Carolina volleyball star, who suffered a life-changing injury at the hands of a trans opponent, was called an “incredible honor” recognized by President Trump on Tuesday night.
Trump spoke harshly about biological men playing in women's sports during Congress' barn burning joint sessions, and chose Payton McNabb, who suffered a concussion and neck injury when a trans player spiked the ball into his head during a 2022 game.
“When her girl's volleyball game was invaded by a man, he smashed the ball into Payton's face, causing traumatic brain damage, partially paralyzing the right side and ended athletic ability.”
McNabb told the post that she was “overwhelmed by emotions” to help the president highlight her story in such a public way.
“What an incredible honour. I was so honored to be there as a guest of the President and First Lady, which makes me unreal.
“It was amazing that he wasn't just there, he was actually screaming at me and sharing my story. It really fills me because I'm so grateful that there's a president who's finally happy to do it and has this problem.”
Democrats who used the joint session as a grandstand opportunity, including one escorted person, gave McNab an icy reception, sitting in his seat while Republicans and galleys cheered.
From her advantage, she could sit and see the Democrats still with stone face as the room in her house erupted with applause after hearing her story.
“I think it was the best speech he'd ever given. It was so pro-American and you could really feel it on one side. The Democrats were really professional and embarrassed in their actions yesterday.”
McNabb was only 17 years old when her injuries forced her to stop her from competing at a high level of the sport. Since then, she has become a powerful and lasting voice in defending fair and safe competition for female athletes.
A day before Trump's speech to Congress, the protection of women and girls in sports law – blocked by the Democratic united front, who would have been enshrined with Title IX protection “based solely on birth reproductive biology and genetics.”
Coupled with the attitude of Congressional Democrats' performance during Tuesday's joint session, the timing of the vote was not lost in the sophomore at West Carolina University.
“I think it was very ironic last night when all the Democrats came together and wore pink and claimed they were a women's party.
“They really showed their hands last night. They can't get over it – 80% of the country agreed and they're willing to die on this hill. It was a real shame to see them stand up for women, as some of them have daughters.
“The Democrats have failed women.”
