California Governor Candidates Clash Over Transgender Sports Rights

UPDATE: As California gears up for the 2026 gubernatorial election, the debate over transgender students participating in school sports has ignited fierce discussions among candidates. This contentious issue is shaping up to be a pivotal topic in the race, with different stances emerging on the right of transgender athletes to compete on teams that align with their gender identity.

Recent interviews conducted by CBS News California Investigates revealed that candidates are sharply divided on this issue. Current California law mandates that public schools allow students to participate in sex-segregated sports based on their gender identity, irrespective of what is recorded on official documents. A poll from April 2025 indicates that 65% of Californians and 71% of public school parents support an executive order that requires sports participation based on the sex assigned at birth.

Among the eleven candidates interviewed, opinions vary widely. Republican candidate Steve Hilton is outspoken against transgender girls competing in girls’ sports, arguing it undermines fair competition for cisgender girls. “It’s not fair for girls who’ve worked so hard,” Hilton stated, vowing to repeal California’s current law.

“I think the legislation has ended up creating tension and division, which shouldn’t be there,”

he added.

Similarly, Chad Bianco, Riverside County sheriff and Republican candidate, emphasized safety and fairness, claiming, “Boys should not be competing against girls.” He further declared, “There will never be an 18-year-old boy walking through a 14-year-old girl’s locker room naked,” highlighting a strong stance against transgender participation in girls’ sports.

Conversely, Democratic candidate Katie Porter supports the existing law but believes that decisions regarding sports participation should be made by governing bodies rather than politicians. “These are rules that can and should be set by the governing bodies,” she asserted.

Tony Thurmond, California’s Superintendent of Public Instruction and also a Democratic candidate, firmly defended the rights of transgender students to compete according to their gender identity. “We are a state that can accept diversity,” Thurmond declared, emphasizing that the law must be followed to protect the rights of all athletes.

While some candidates, like Antonio Villaraigosa, acknowledge support for transgender rights, they draw lines based on biological factors. Villaraigosa stated, “Men who have gone through puberty and are now transgender women should not play with women,” but he stressed that he opposes discrimination in all forms.

The range of opinions reflects a broader societal debate, with candidates like Leo Zacky arguing that current laws are man-made decisions that can be changed. “You’re born a boy, you’re born a girl. That’s it,” he said, echoing sentiments that resonate with a segment of the electorate.

The urgency of this issue resonates with voters, many of whom are concerned about fairness, inclusion, and the rights of all students. As the gubernatorial race unfolds, the candidates’ positions on this divisive topic are likely to influence public opinion and voter turnout.

NEXT: With the election still years away, the ongoing dialogue surrounding transgender rights in sports will continue to evolve. Voters are encouraged to reflect on the candidates’ views and consider the implications for California’s youth.

Stay tuned for more updates as candidates clarify their positions and as new developments arise in this critical electoral race.