Spanberger Sidesteps Transgender Policy Questions, Focuses on Funding

Abigail Spanberger, the Democratic nominee for governor of Virginia, recently faced criticism for her handling of questions regarding transgender policies during a campaign event. When asked about her stance on the inclusion of transgender individuals in female spaces, Spanberger diverted the conversation to federal funding issues and criticized the previous administration’s interpretation of Title IX.

The exchange highlights the contentious nature of transgender issues in Virginia’s political landscape, particularly in the lead-up to the 2026 gubernatorial election. Spanberger was specifically challenged by Republican Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears, who accused her of supporting policies that allow “men in girls’ locker rooms.” Rather than directly addressing the accusation, Spanberger emphasized disputes over federal funding and the implications of Title IX, which prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs.

During her response, Spanberger pointed out the “conflicting interpretations” of Title IX, which were shaped significantly by the Trump administration. Notably, this administration excluded “gender identity” from its interpretation of the law, leading to investigations against schools that allowed students to use facilities corresponding to their gender identity. Spanberger remarked on the importance of clarity from the federal government regarding guidance for schools about locker room access.

She stated: “The reality is that the federal government has the ability to change the letter of the law…There are differences between what is the law of the land under Title IX and what are executive orders put out by the White House.”

She further criticized the current administration for using federal funding as leverage, asserting that such actions threaten essential funding for education and research programs. Spanberger described this as a misuse of congressional approval, stating, “It is not the president’s ability…to just pull back funding.”

This debate over transgender policies has intensified in Virginia, particularly with the scrutiny surrounding recent incidents involving transgender individuals in school facilities. One notable case involved a convicted sex offender, Richard Cox, who allegedly accessed female locker rooms in public schools. This incident has prompted additional discussions about safety and the rights of transgender individuals in educational settings. Spanberger’s campaign has not provided a clear response to whether she would uphold or rescind guidance from the current administration that restricts transgender individuals’ access to certain facilities.

In response to Spanberger’s comments, Earle-Sears criticized her approach on social media, labeling it a “word salad.” White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller also weighed in, suggesting Spanberger’s remarks indicated a lack of clarity on the issue. He compared her to Vice President Kamala Harris, stating, “This makes Kamala Harris sound coherent.”

Virginia remains a focal point in the national debate over transgender rights, with gubernatorial candidates and policymakers grappling with the implications of these issues. Recent polling indicates that Spanberger holds a narrow lead over Earle-Sears, with estimates showing Spanberger at 47.7% and Earle-Sears at 45.1%, a margin that underscores the significance of these policy discussions in the upcoming election.

As the gubernatorial race progresses, the handling of transgender issues is likely to remain a pivotal topic, influencing both campaign strategies and voter perceptions in Virginia.