Payton McNabb Heartbroken Over Democrats' Cold Response to Her Story of Injuries from Trans Athlete

During President Donald Trump's joint address on Tuesday night, former volleyball player Payton McNabb's story of resilience was met with an icy silence from Democrats. McNabb, who suffered severe injuries after competing against a transgender athlete in 2022, was honored by Trump for her advocacy to protect women and girls in sports. Her injuries, including a concussion, brain bleed, and permanent whiplash, have turned her into a vocal proponent of separating biological males from female sports categories.

Trump’s pledge to cut federal funding to schools permitting trans athletes to compete in girls' sports drew applause from Republicans. The Democrats, on the other hand, remained seated and silent—creating a stark visual contrast in the chamber.

McNabb expressed her disappointment after the event, telling Fox News Digital that the Democrats' reaction was as unsurprising as it was disheartening. "It was heartbreaking," she said. "They didn’t stand for any of the guests, not even for DJ Daniel, a young boy who survived brain cancer, or for Laken Riley’s family, who lost their daughter tragically."

Further fueling the tension, most Democratic congresswomen wore pink as a visual protest against Trump, citing support for women's rights—this, despite the fact that Senate Democrats had just blocked the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act. The legislation aimed to prevent trans athletes from competing in women's sports, but was filibustered by Senate Democrats, leaving McNabb and many others feeling abandoned.

McNabb criticized the move, saying, "The Democrat party failed women. Even with daughters of their own, they chose not to pass this bill. It's not like they don't know the stories—mine and so many others. It's just sad and embarrassing."

The drama didn’t end there. Rep. Al Green, a Democrat from Texas, was escorted out after repeatedly shouting at Trump during his speech’s opening minutes. Waving his cane, Green yelled, "You have no mandate," prompting Speaker Mike Johnson to have him removed by the Sergeant-at-Arms.

McNabb wasn’t alone in her criticism of the Democrats’ behavior. Many conservatives took to social media to express outrage over the lack of decorum, the pink outfits, and the defiant signs displayed by some Democrats during the address. "Theatrics were definitely there," McNabb remarked. "The American people now see more than ever that Democrats are not pro-America."

Despite the divisive atmosphere, McNabb said she was grateful for the chance to attend the event. Sitting next to second lady Usha Vance and sharing her story with key figures like border czar Tom Homan made the night unforgettable for her. "This is something I’ll remember for the rest of my life," she said.