Newsom Faces Fiery Backlash Over 'Fairness' Comments on Transgender Inclusion in Women’s Sports

California Governor Gavin Newsom found himself in hot water after addressing the controversial issue of transgender inclusion in women’s sports on the debut episode of his podcast, "This is Gavin Newsom." The comments, which touched on the "issue of fairness," received backlash from both conservatives and liberals.

Speaking with guest Charlie Kirk, a well-known conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, the governor was asked about transgender athletes competing in women’s sports. Kirk didn't mince words, referencing a specific incident where a transgender athlete achieved a major win in a California high school competition. Kirk asked Newsom if he would take a stand against such instances.

"The young man who's about to win the state championship in the long jump in female sports, that shouldn't happen," Kirk said. "Would you, as the governor, step out and say no? Would you say no men in female sports?"

Newsom responded, "I think it’s an issue of fairness. I completely agree with you on that. It is an issue of fairness — it’s deeply unfair. I am not wrestling with the fairness issue. I totally agree with you." However, Newsom also acknowledged the complexity of the matter, advocating for "humility and grace" when addressing vulnerable groups, including transgender individuals, who often face mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and suicide.

While Newsom agreed with Kirk on the fairness aspect, his comments drew sharp criticism. Conservatives chastised him for not taking decisive action against transgender athletes in women’s sports, while LGBTQ+ advocates accused him of pandering to right-wing narratives. Charlotte Clymer, a prominent LGBTQ+ activist, accused Newsom of treating transgender youth as "disposable bargaining chips" for political gain, hinting at a potential 2028 presidential bid.

California Assemblymember Chris Ward and Senator Caroline Menjivar, both leaders in the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus, expressed their frustration in a joint statement, saying, "Sometimes Gavin Newsom goes for the Profile in Courage, sometimes not. We woke up profoundly sickened and frustrated by these remarks." They highlighted that California has allowed transgender athletes to compete according to their gender identity since 2013 without significant issues until the topic gained political traction.

Adding to the debate, the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) recently reaffirmed its commitment to allowing transgender athletes to compete in alignment with their gender identity, citing compliance with state law. The CIF stated, "The CIF provides students with the opportunity to belong, connect, and compete in education-based experiences in compliance with California law ... which permits students to participate in school programs and activities, including athletic teams and competitions, consistent with the student’s gender identity."

Meanwhile, Riley Gaines, a former NCAA athlete and advocate for fairness in women’s sports, also voiced her disapproval of Newsom’s comments. On the other side, Senate Democrats recently blocked the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, which sought to restrict transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports, further adding to the contentiousness of the issue.

The broader debate remains a lightning rod for political and cultural tensions, as Newsom attempts to balance the demands of fairness with the need for compassion and inclusion — a tightrope act that clearly hasn’t pleased everyone.