(NewsNation) — California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, a defender of rights for the LGBTQ community, said his party was wrong in its support of transgender athletes participating in women’s sports.
“I think it’s an issue of fairness. I completely agree with you on that. It is an issue of fairness — it’s deeply unfair,” Newsom said in an episode of his new podcast “This is Gavin Newsom.” He was speaking with conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who asked Newsom if he would say “no” to men participating in women’s sports.
Kirk asked if Newsom would speak out against a young man who is going to win the girls’ state championship in the long jump. “I can see you are wrestling with it,” Kirk said to Newsom.
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“I am not wrestling with the fairness issue. I totally agree with you,” Newsom said.
“I revere sports, so the issue of fairness is completely legit,” Newsom said. “And I saw that — the last couple years, boy, did I see how you guys were able to weaponize that issue at another level.”
Kirk challenged Newsom over his use of the word “weaponize.” Newsom then used the word “highlight.”
Newsom said he completely agrees “on the issue of fairness. That is easy to call out. The fairness of it.”
“We are getting crushed on it, crushed,” Newsom said.
Newsom pointed out in the podcast that he has been a front-runner for LGBTQ rights for years and has been a major supporter of marriage for same-sex couples.
Editor’s Note: LGBTQ youth struggling with thoughts of suicide can reach the Trevor Lifeline at 1-866-488-73836 and the Trans Lifeline at 1-877-565-8860. You can also reach the National Crisis Line by calling 988.
