California gubernatorial candidate Tom Steyer expressed support for transgender athletes participating in high school sports during a podcast released on Sunday. He stated that excluding transgender youth from athletics could exacerbate their existing emotional and mental health challenges. Steyer highlighted the vulnerability of transgender individuals, noting that nearly half of them experience suicidal thoughts. He criticized opposition to transgender participation in sports as a 'right-wing attempt' to vilify already marginalized individuals.
Steyer is competing in a crowded Democratic field for the governorship, which includes candidates such as former U.S. Rep. Katie Porter and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan. Other candidates have shared varying views on the issue, with some supporting inclusion while acknowledging concerns about fairness in competition. Mahan pointed out the potential unfairness of biological males competing against female athletes, while Villaraigosa labeled the debate a 'non-issue' but expressed opposition to discrimination. Republican candidates have advocated for overturning laws that allow transgender athletes to compete based on their gender identity.