Linda McMahon Criticizes Democrats Over Women’s Sports Concerns

Education Secretary Linda McMahon addressed the Supreme Court’s recent decision upholding state bans on transgender athletes in women’s sports. She stressed the importance of protecting female athletes, highlighting concerns over fairness, lost opportunities, and locker room safety. McMahon criticized Democrats for dismissing these issues, reiterating the Trump administration’s dedication to safeguarding women’s rights under Title IX.

California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office responded following the Supreme Court’s historic ruling. The 6-3 decision upheld state laws that prevent biological male trans athletes from competing in women’s sports. California, among 23 states lacking such laws, maintains protections for males competing against females since 2014. Newsom’s spokesperson stated that the ruling will not alter California’s policies.

The spokesperson assured that the state is devoted to treating every Californian, including the LGBTQ community, with dignity and respect. An insider from Newsom’s office provided a bulleted list to Fox News Digital entitled “As a Governor, Governor Newsom has the strongest record in the country on protecting and expanding transgender rights.”

The list referenced efforts like simplifying the process to update gender markers on official documents and the appointment of multiple trans judges. California was noted for being one of 22 states with laws permitting transgender students to participate in sports aligning with their gender identity, a measure passed in 2013.

In May, California faced a media storm involving trans athlete AB Hernandez in girls’ sports. Hernandez achieved two state titles in track and field for the second consecutive year. Prior to the state tournament’s first round, protests led by former NCAA women’s soccer player Sophia Lorey organized a press conference nearby under the “Save Girls Sports” movement.

A source from Newsom’s office previously commented on the press conference, causing local controversy. The Governor emphasized discussions should center on fairness, dignity, and respect. He opposed what he described as right-wing endeavors to politicize the issue to target individual children. Furthermore, Newsom’s office faced broad backlash after the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) reinstated a program that adjusted podium standings, elevating girls finishing behind trans athletes by one position, with notable images of Hernandez sharing the podium emerging.

The Department of Justice, led by President Donald Trump, is pursuing Title IX lawsuits against Californian educational agencies for policies facilitating trans athletes in girls’ sports. The legal action commenced in July after Hernandez’s victories in various state finals.

Previously, Newsom described allowing males in girls’ sports as “deeply unfair” during a podcast with Charlie Kirk in March 2025. He later expressed significant frustration with it in a July 2025 interview on the “Shawn Ryan Show,” noting he frequently encountered concerned parents at his children’s soccer matches. Despite being a staunch supporter of trans policies, Newsom acknowledged public resentment, including among progressive individuals.

Newsom’s comments led to irritation within the LGBTQ caucus and an alleged exchange with President Donald Trump on the matter. Newsom recognized the issue as pressing, despite the political and media scrutiny.