California’s liberal Governor Gavin Newsom shocked his base by agreeing with conservative commentator Charlie Kirk that transgender athletes competing in women’s sports presents a “fairness” issue. His sudden change of heart has infuriated LGBTQ advocates while leaving conservatives skeptical of his true intentions.
At a Glance
- Newsom admitted on his new podcast “This is Gavin Newsom” that transgender inclusion in women’s sports is “deeply unfair”
- Conservative commentator Charlie Kirk pressed Newsom on the issue during the debut episode
- LGBTQ advocates and Democratic lawmakers accused Newsom of endorsing “attacks on trans youth”
- Conservatives criticized Newsom for political maneuvering without taking legislative action
- California continues to allow transgender athletes to compete based on gender identity despite Trump’s executive order
Newsom’s Surprise Admission Infuriates Liberal Base
Governor Gavin Newsom set off a firestorm of criticism from his liberal supporters after admitting that allowing transgender athletes to compete in women’s sports creates a fundamental fairness problem. But it’s hard to know if he even believes what he’s saying.
The “controversial” comments came during a discussion with Turning Point USA Founder Charlie Kirk on Newsom’s newly launched podcast “This is Gavin Newsom,” which aims to engage with conservative audiences.
When Kirk asked Newsom about a hypothetical transgender athlete winning a women’s state championship, the normally progressive governor shocked listeners with his response. “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,” Newsom said.
Newsom even acknowledged that Democrats are losing voter support over their handling of transgender issues in sports, perhaps giving us an insight into why he’s “agreeing” with conservatives all of a sudden.
“We’re getting crushed on it. Crushed. Crushed,” Newsom admitted during the podcast.
Despite California having policies that allow transgender athletes to compete based on gender identity, Newsom’s comments signal that Democratic leaders may be recognizing the political liabilities of their stance. Senate Democrats recently blocked the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act from advancing, further highlighting the party’s controversial position on an issue where public opinion increasingly favors restrictions.
LGBTQ Advocates Feel Betrayed
Newsom’s unexpected comments sparked immediate backlash from LGBTQ advocates and Democratic lawmakers who have long considered him an ally. Prominent transgender advocate Charlotte Clymer accused Newsom of political calculation at the expense of vulnerable youth. California State Senator Scott Wiener was particularly harsh in his condemnation of the governor’s remarks.
“Gavin Newsom knows that the trans youth in sports issue is a ridiculous, rightwing propaganda effort. He knows this is powered by anti-trans hatred, not reason. And yet, he still chose to endorse attacks on trans youth to bolster his national profile for a 2028 presidential run.” Charlotte Clymer said.
But for Newsom, it might be worth the backlash: he is, after all, desperate to become President one day.