California gubernatorial candidate Tom Steyer is defending transgender athletes competing in high school sports, making the issue part of the growing policy debate in the state’s governor’s race.
Steyer made the comments during an appearance on the “I’ve Had It” podcast, where he said he supports transgender students participating in school athletics.
He argued that transgender youth already face serious emotional stress and social pressure, and that excluding them from team sports would make those challenges worse.
Steyer said the issue has been exaggerated by conservatives and described the debate as an attempt to target a vulnerable group of young people.
TRENDING TODAY
His comments come as California’s race for governor continues to heat up ahead of the end of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s term. Steyer is one of several Democrats competing to keep the governorship in Democratic hands.
Other Democratic candidates have also weighed in on the issue, though with different levels of support and caution.
Former Rep. Katie Porter said youth sports should be about building character, teamwork and personal growth, not only about winning. Former HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra said California should continue protecting students under existing state law.
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan offered a more cautious answer. He said the issue is often used as a political weapon, but acknowledged that some parents may have fairness concerns in certain sports situations.
Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa called the debate largely a “non-issue,” while also saying he personally believes biological males who have gone through puberty should not compete in women’s sports.
Other candidates, including Betty Yee and Tony Thurmond, emphasized inclusion and fairness, while Republican candidates Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco support reversing California’s current policy.
The issue has become a major flashpoint in state and national politics. Supporters of transgender athlete participation argue that students should be allowed to play on teams consistent with their gender identity and should not be excluded from school activities.
Critics argue that allowing biological males to compete in girls’ and women’s sports can create unfair advantages and raise concerns about competitive balance and safety.
For California Democrats, the debate presents a political challenge. Candidates are trying to support transgender rights while also responding to concerns from voters who worry about fairness in school sports.
The issue is likely to remain part of the governor’s race as candidates face pressure from both progressive activists and voters who want clearer rules around youth athletics.
Why It Matters
The debate over transgender athletes has moved from local school boards into statewide campaigns. In California, where Democrats dominate state politics, the issue could still test candidates on how they balance inclusion, fairness, parental concerns and civil rights protections.
What Comes Next
California’s gubernatorial candidates are expected to face more questions on the issue as the campaign continues. The debate could also influence future legislation or legal challenges involving school sports participation rules.
Tom Steyer: “I’m totally in favor of trans athletes in high school. When you understand the vulnerability, the stress, the danger of being a trans kid and you understand almost half of them try to commit suicide…”pic.twitter.com/fUCLQ5frk3
— Defiant L’s (@DefiantLs) May 25, 2026
