Trump threatens to withhold funds from California over transgender athlete in girls’ sports – Washington Times

President Trump’s Firm Stance on Transgender Athletes in Women’s Sports

President Donald Trump has issued a stern ultimatum to California, threatening to withdraw federal funding unless the state adheres to his administration’s policy prohibiting transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports. The controversy erupted following the victory of transgender athlete AB Hernandez in both the girls’ long jump and triple jump at the recent California Interscholastic Federation Track Championships Masters Qualifiers.

Ultimatum to California’s Governor

President Trump has announced plans to discuss this pressing issue directly with California Governor Gavin Newsom. President Trump criticized Governor Newsom’s leadership, particularly targeting policies that allow transgender athletes to compete in women’s sports, which he described as unfair and demeaning to female athletes. Trump’s forceful approach includes withholding “large scale Federal Funding” unless compliance with the February ban is observed.

The president didn’t shy away from expressing his willingness to involve local authorities to enforce these regulations at the upcoming state finals, despite the fact that they fall under Governor Newsom’s jurisdiction.

Governor Newsom’s Complex Position

Interestingly, Governor Newsom, a Democrat potentially eyeing a 2028 presidential bid, has shown some alignment with President Trump’s stance on the issue. In a podcast discussion, Newsom admitted the unfairness of the situation and hinted at being open to legislation that could address the participation of transgender athletes in women’s sports while maintaining a respectful and balanced approach.

Local and National Reactions

STOP THE RADICAL LEFT FROM TAKING OVER IN 2026
1776 Coalition Sponsored
STOP THE RADICAL LEFT FROM TAKING OVER IN 2026

As a retired Marine Corps General with nearly 50 years of service to the USA, I’m telling you to never underestimate our adversary. Contrary to media reports, they’ve got a plan to sabotage GOP efforts and distract you. They want you to abandon America’s Golden Age. Don’t let them succeed. Stand with me, Jack Bergman, and let’s defeat the left on Capitol Hill!

The situation has sparked a significant reaction both locally and nationally. Sophia Lorey from the California Family Council and Sonja Shaw, president of the Chino Valley Unified School District Board of Education, have voiced strong support for the Trump administration’s intervention. Shaw emphasized that no financial considerations should override the importance of fairness in girls’ sports.

A recent press conference saw community members rallying around the slogan “Protect Girls Sports,” reflecting a growing concern among conservatives regarding the preservation of integrity and fairness in female athletics.

Federal Considerations and Broader Implications

This is not a standalone issue but a part of a wider debate on gender, sports, and education policies across the United States. California is among 22 states that allow students to participate in sports based on their gender identity rather than their biological sex. The current contention presents a critical test for Title IX implications and the federal government’s role in enforcing educational policy standards related to sports.

The final outcomes of this dispute could set significant precedents affecting the interpretation of gender and competition in schools across the nation, underscoring a major ideological battle between progressive policies and conservative values regarding sports and gender identity.