California Governor Gavin Newsom is facing criticism after opposing transgender athletes competing in women’s sports. His remarks, made on the first episode of his podcast, contrast with his long-standing support for LGBTQ+ rights and the Democratic Party’s stance on the issue.
Newsom Calls Fairness Concerns ‘Legit’
According to Politico, Newsom discussed the topic on This is Gavin Newsom, released on March 5. He argued that competition between transgender women and cisgender female athletes is unfair. “I revere sports, so the issue of fairness is completely legit,” he said. His comments aligned with conservative arguments that transgender and cisgender female athletes should not compete together in school sports.
Charlie Kirk Challenges Newsom on Transgender Athlete Controversy
On the episode, Newsom hosted Charlie Kirk, leader of the conservative group Turning Point USA and an ally of Donald Trump and Donald Trump Jr. Kirk questioned Newsom about AB Hernandez, a transgender high school track athlete from Jurupa Valley, California. Hernandez won the women’s triple jump at the Ontario Relays 2025 last month, sparking backlash. Conservatives claimed the competition was unfair. In response, Newsom stated, “The fairness issue is entirely legitimate,” reinforcing Republican concerns.
A Shift from Newsom’s Past LGBTQ+ Advocacy
His latest remarks contrast sharply with his past actions. In 2004, as mayor of San Francisco, Newsom issued marriage licenses to same-sex couples. This was four years before California legalized same-sex marriage and 11 years before it became legal nationwide. His move was controversial even within the Democratic Party but established his reputation as an LGBTQ+ rights advocate.
Strategic Shift Ahead of 2028?
Political analysts suggest Newsom may be adjusting his stance ahead of a potential 2028 presidential run. Instead of rejecting Republican concerns on transgender athletes and same-sex marriage, he acknowledged their opposition as a valid stance. His remarks suggest a more balanced approach as he navigates the national political landscape.
BY KYEONGJUN KIM [kim.kyeongjun1@koreadaily.com]
![Government and corporate representatives from both countries pose for a commemorative photo at the "Signing Ceremony for Strengthening Cooperation between Korean Air, Boeing, and GE" held in Washington D.C. on March 21 (local time). Pictured are Ahn Duk-geun, Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy (third from right), Cho Won-tae, Chairman of Hanjin Group (fourth from right), Gina Raimondo, U.S. Secretary of Commerce (third from left), Kelly Ortberg, CEO of Boeing (fourth from left), and Russell Stokes, President and CEO of GE Aerospace's Commercial Engines & Services division (first from left). [Photo provided by Korean Air]](https://www.koreadailyus.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Korean-Air-Strengthens-Cooperation-with-Boeing-and-GE-100x70.jpeg "Korean Air Strengthens Cooperation with Boeing and GE")
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