Tom Steyer Supports Transgender Athlete AB Hernandez Amid Gubernatorial Campaign

California gubernatorial candidate Tom Steyer released a video featuring transgender athlete AB Hernandez, advocating for Hernandez’s success in girls’ track and field. The video quickly gained attention, inciting both praise and criticism.

Steyer’s support for Hernandez attracted commendations from advocates of transgender rights, including comedian Stacy Cay. Conversely, the reaction among right-wing commentators was largely negative, as they criticized Steyer’s stance on transgender athletes in women’s sports.

In response, Republican opponent Steve Hilton criticized Steyer during an interview with Fox News Digital. Hilton labeled Steyer’s position as extreme and disconnected from the views of many California families.

The video shared by Steyer includes Hernandez discussing the challenges of being ‘outed’ and ‘doxed.’ Steyer emphasizes the importance of protection, reaffirming his commitment to safeguarding Californians from harmful influences.

Steyer shows his support by posing for a photo with Hernandez and Hernandez’s mother. Hernandez progressed to the final rounds of the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) championships, achieving top positions in preliminary events.

The CIF has implemented a policy to advance female athletes who finish immediately behind Hernandez, ensuring continued competition opportunities as the tournament progresses to the finals.

The coverage of this topic reflects ongoing debates around transgender athletes in sports, with reporters like Jackson Thompson exploring the intersecting realms of politics and culture.