California Governor Gavin Newsom has responded to the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) lawsuit challenging the state’s policy that allows transgender athletes to compete in girls’ school sports. The DOJ alleges that California’s policy violates Title IX, a federal law prohibiting sex-based discrimination in education, by disadvantaging cisgender female athletes.
In defense, Newsom prompted fellow Democrat and California Attorney General Rob Bonta to file a countersuit against the DOJ, arguing that the state’s policy aligns with its 2013 School Success and Opportunity Act, which permits students to participate in school activities consistent with their gender identity. Bonta contends that the federal government’s actions are discriminatory and lack constitutional authority.
Newsom has previously acknowledged concerns about fairness in sports, calling the participation of biological males in women’s athletic competitions unfair. However, he has also emphasized the need to treat transgender individuals with dignity and respect — and has stopped short of supporting an outright ban on transgender athletes.
The latest legal battle over transgender inclusion in sports underscores a broader national debate — with California once again positioning itself as a leading opponent of directives from the Trump administration.