Newsom Faces Backlash Over Trans Athletes Remarks

California Governor Gavin Newsom has sparked significant backlash from LGBTQ+ advocates and fellow Democrats after declaring on his podcast that the participation of transgender women and girls in female sports is 'deeply unfair.' His comments, made during a discussion with conservative activist Charlie Kirk, have been met with sharp criticism, particularly from members of his own party who feel he is aligning with anti-trans rhetoric. Prominent Democrats, including State Senator Scott Wiener and former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, condemned his stance, arguing it contradicts his history of supporting LGBTQ+ rights. Wiener specifically highlighted the false narratives perpetuated by right-wing media regarding trans athletes as threats. Newsom's remarks have opened a rift within the Democratic Party and may signal a shift in his political strategy as he eyes a potential presidential run in 2028. Major LGBTQ+ organizations are now using his comments as a litmus test for Democratic candidates' commitment to trans rights.