Police Intervene as Debate Erupts Over Transgender Sports Bill in Maine

On Election Day in Rockport, Maine, police were called to diffuse a dispute at the Rockport Public Library involving a petition to restrict transgender women from participating in women’s sports. The incident unfolded as a man collecting signatures for the initiative, known as Protect Girls’ Sports, engaged in a heated discussion with a local resident opposed to the measure.

The petition seeks to establish separate sports teams based on biological sex assigned at birth, which proponents argue is necessary to maintain fairness in athletics. Those in favor of the initiative aim to gather enough support to place the measure on the ballot for a referendum in November 2026. To do so, they need to secure 70,000 signatures by early next year.

Election workers reported that tensions escalated when a young woman sat near the petition gatherer, holding a sign that expressed her disagreement with the proposal. This back-and-forth prompted Rebecca Ewen, the election warden, to summon local law enforcement for assistance.

Chief Randy Gagne, along with Lieutenant Chris Young and Patrol Officer Jim Greeley from the Rockport Police Department, arrived at the scene. They were joined by Mark Bennett from the Camden police department and Fire Chief Jason Peasley. Gagne later stated that the situation was resolved without further conflict.

The petitioners are part of a broader movement that has seen similar efforts in nearby towns, including Rockland and Camden. Some of those gathering signatures are contractors who are compensated either by the hour or per signature collected.

Former Governor Paul LePage has publicly supported the initiative, sharing a video on social media urging voters to sign the petition. The proposed legislation would mandate separate teams, locker rooms, and bathrooms in schools based on biological sex. If successful, the regulations could come into effect as early as January 2027.

Critics of the measure argue that it discriminates against transgender students, igniting a broader conversation about inclusivity in sports. The ongoing debate reflects deep divisions in public opinion on how to balance fairness in athletics with the rights of transgender individuals.

As election-related activities continue, the Protect Girls’ Sports initiative remains a contentious topic, signaling that discussions around transgender participation in sports are far from over.