California Gubernatorial Candidates Clash Over Transgender Sports Rights

UPDATE: As California gears up for the 2026 governor’s election, the debate over whether transgender students can compete in school sports based on their gender identity is heating up. In a series of interviews with CBS News California Investigates, candidates express sharply contrasting views on this contentious issue that could significantly impact young athletes across the state.

Recent polling reveals that 65% of Californians, including 71% of public school parents, support the Trump administration’s stance requiring students to participate in sports aligned with their sex assigned at birth. This backdrop sets the stage for a fierce debate as candidates outline their positions on California’s current law, which guarantees transgender students the right to participate in sports according to their gender identity.

Among the eleven candidates interviewed, opinions vary widely. Republican candidate Steve Hilton argues fervently against current laws, stating, “It’s not fair for girls who’ve worked so hard.” He vows to overturn existing legislation, claiming it violates sections of the California Constitution meant to ensure “safe schools.” He added, “I think the legislation has ended up creating tension and division, which shouldn’t be there.”

Similarly, fellow Republican and Riverside County sheriff Chad Bianco declared, “Boys should not be competing against girls,” emphasizing his commitment to keeping competitive sports fair. He warned, “There will never be an 18-year-old boy walking through a 14-year-old girl’s locker room naked” if he becomes governor.

Democratic candidate Stephen J. Cloobeck shares concerns about fairness, stating, “I have a degree in neurobiopsychology… XX is XX and XY is XY.” He believes the law should be re-evaluated in light of biological differences. Meanwhile, Ian Calderon, a former state assemblymember, acknowledged the potential advantages transgender girls may possess but expressed a willingness to evolve his views over time, stressing the importance of compassion for all students involved.

On the other side of the spectrum, Katie Porter supports the current law, advocating that decisions about team participation should lie with governing bodies like the California Interscholastic Federation. “These are rules that can and should be set by the governing bodies,” she stated, aligning with Antonio Villaraigosa and others who call for a non-political approach to the matter.

Current California Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond robustly defended the rights of transgender athletes, asserting, “We are a state that can accept diversity… and we will make sure that we follow the law and protect the rights of transgender athletes.”

As the political landscape unfolds, the issue of transgender athletes remains a flashpoint that could sway voters. The candidates’ diverging views highlight the complexities surrounding fairness, inclusion, and the role of government in sports—a conversation that is only just beginning.

With the election still years away, these discussions are pivotal in shaping the future of California’s educational and athletic policies. What remains to be seen is how these positions will resonate with voters as they prepare to head to the polls.

Stay tuned for further updates as this crucial debate continues to evolve in the lead-up to the 2026 gubernatorial election. Share your thoughts: Where do you stand on transgender athletes participating in school sports?