California Governor Candidates Clash Over Transgender Athletes’ Rights

URGENT UPDATE: As California gears up for the 2026 gubernatorial election, the debate over whether transgender students should compete in school sports based on their gender identity has ignited fierce discussions among candidates. With voter sentiment shifting, the stakes are high as candidates present sharply contrasting views on this contentious issue that impacts youth and community dynamics.

Over the past weeks, CBS News California Investigates correspondent Julie Watts engaged with the leading candidates to discuss their positions on California’s existing law, which guarantees transgender students the right to participate in sports aligned with their gender identity. Current law mandates that public schools respect students’ gender identity in sports and facilities, a provision under scrutiny as the election approaches.

Recent polling from the Public Policy Institute of California indicates a significant portion of the electorate is divided, with 65% of Californians and 71% of public school parents supporting a controversial executive order from the Trump administration that would restrict participation based on sex assigned at birth.

Candidates are voicing a spectrum of opinions. Republican candidate Steve Hilton argues passionately against the current law, claiming it jeopardizes fairness for girls. “It’s not fair for girls who’ve worked so hard,” he stated, pledging to repeal the law if elected. Fellow Republican, Chad Bianco, emphasized safety, asserting, “Boys should not be competing against girls,” and vowed to prevent any inappropriate situations in school facilities.

The debate isn’t limited to Republican candidates. Democratic hopeful Stephen J. Cloobeck expressed a desire for voters to reconsider the law, citing biological arguments. “XX is XX and XY is XY,” he remarked, emphasizing a scientific perspective on the issue. Meanwhile, Antonio Villaraigosa, the former mayor of Los Angeles, acknowledged the need for compassion while also opposing transgender women in women’s sports, stating, “Men who have gone through puberty… should not compete with women.”

In contrast, some candidates, including Katie Porter and Xavier Becerra, advocate for the current law, asserting that decisions about sports participation should rest with governing bodies like the California Interscholastic Federation. Porter stated, “These are rules that can and should be set by the governing bodies,” while Becerra emphasized, “I’m not interested in having someone bullied or discriminated against because of who they are.”

As the candidates articulate their positions, the urgency of this debate is palpable, impacting not only the upcoming election but also the lives of transgender youth across California. The discussions highlight a crucial intersection of rights, safety, and inclusion, resonating deeply with families and communities statewide.

Looking ahead, observers will closely watch how these debates influence voter sentiment as the election approaches. The candidates’ differing viewpoints reveal a broader national conversation about gender identity and sports, making this issue not just relevant for California but for voters across the United States.

As the race heats up, California voters must consider their stance on these pressing issues. Where do you stand on the participation of transgender athletes in school sports? The conversation is ongoing, and the implications are significant for the future of California’s youth and the values the state upholds.

Stay tuned for more updates as the election date draws near, and candidates continue to clarify their positions on this and other critical issues impacting California’s future.