California Gubernatorial Candidates Clash Over Transgender Sports Rights

UPDATE: The race for California governor is heating up as candidates voice strong opinions on the rights of transgender athletes in school sports. This contentious issue has emerged as a focal point ahead of the 2026 election, with candidates sharply divided on the existing law that allows students to participate in sports teams based on their gender identity.

In interviews conducted by Julie Watts from CBS News, candidates articulated their stances on California’s law, which mandates public schools to permit students to engage in sex-segregated sports according to their gender identity. This law has sparked heated debate among the eleven candidates, revealing a spectrum of views ranging from staunch opposition to full support.

Polling data from the Public Policy Institute of California shows that 65% of Californians and 71% of public school parents favor a reversal of current policies, advocating for participation based on biological sex at birth. This backdrop intensifies the urgency of candidate responses as voters prepare to make pivotal decisions.

Republican candidate Steve Hilton asserts that allowing transgender girls to compete in girls’ sports undermines fairness. He stated, “It’s not fair for girls who’ve worked so hard,” and vowed to overturn the existing law, claiming it violates sections of the California Constitution. Similarly, Chad Bianco, the Riverside County sheriff, emphasized safety: “Boys should not be competing against girls,” he declared, vowing to protect young female athletes.

In stark contrast, Tony Thurmond, California’s superintendent of public instruction, passionately defended the rights of transgender students. “We are a state that can accept diversity,” he stated, advocating for the protection of transgender athletes in alignment with current legislation.

Candidates also expressed a desire for a balanced approach. For example, Butch Ware argued that decisions about team participation should rest with sports governing bodies rather than politicians. Likewise, Katie Porter echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the California Interscholastic Federation should dictate sports rules.

The debate takes on a more nuanced tone with candidates like Antonio Villaraigosa, who differentiated between transgender women who have undergone puberty and their participation in women’s sports. He highlighted the importance of inclusivity but maintained that fairness in competition must prevail.

As these discussions unfold, many candidates are calling for compassion. Ian Calderon acknowledged the complexity of the issue while expressing a belief in the need for dialogue and understanding, stating, “These are also kids… we really have to be compassionate.”

The implications of these positions are profound, as they not only affect the lives of transgender students but also shape the future landscape of California’s educational policies. With the election still years away, the urgency of these debates cannot be overstated, as public opinion and candidate positions continue to evolve.

As California voters prepare to engage with these pivotal issues, the question remains: Where do you stand on the rights of transgender athletes in school sports? As the race progresses, the candidates’ responses will undoubtedly influence the discourse surrounding this critical topic.

Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story as candidates continue to share their visions for California’s future.