California Gubernatorial Candidates Clash Over Transgender Sports Rights

UPDATE: As the race for California’s governorship heats up ahead of the 2026 elections, candidates are sharply divided over whether transgender students should compete in school sports based on their gender identity. This contentious issue, spotlighted in recent interviews by CBS News, is shaping the political landscape and voter sentiment across the state.

In a series of interviews, CBS News California Investigates correspondent Julie Watts engaged with top candidates, including Xavier Becerra, Katie Porter, and Steve Hilton, revealing a spectrum of opinions on California’s existing law, which mandates that public schools allow students to participate in sports teams aligned with their gender identity. This law has garnered support from 65% of Californians, according to an April 2025 poll by the Public Policy Institute of California.

The candidates’ responses underscore the urgency of this debate. Steve Hilton, a Republican contender, boldly declared, “It’s not fair for girls who’ve worked so hard,” advocating for repealing the current law. He argues that it violates California’s constitutional provisions on safety and gender discrimination. Similarly, Chad Bianco, Riverside County sheriff, emphasized, “Boys should not be competing against girls,” asserting that safety is paramount in sports.

Meanwhile, Democratic candidate Antonio Villaraigosa expressed nuanced views, stating, “Men who have gone through puberty and are now transgender women should not play with women.” His stance highlights the ongoing debate surrounding biological differences while maintaining a commitment to anti-discrimination.

On the opposite end, Katie Porter, a leading Democratic candidate, supports the current law but insists that decisions regarding participation should reside with sports governing bodies, not politicians. “These are rules that can and should be set by the governing bodies,” she stated, advocating for a hands-off approach from the government.

The candidates’ discussions also revealed a broader concern about the treatment of transgender youth. Ian Calderon, a former state assembly member, acknowledged potential advantages for transgender girl athletes but emphasized the need for compassion, stating, “These are also kids… we really have to be compassionate.”

With the election fast approaching, California voters face a critical choice. The candidates’ stances on transgender athletes could significantly impact the lives of many young individuals in schools across the state. As the political debate continues, many are left wondering how it will shape the future of inclusion and fairness in sports.

As this story develops, voters are encouraged to stay informed and consider the implications of each candidate’s position on this vital issue. The ongoing accountability series by CBS News California Investigates presents an opportunity for citizens to discern where each candidate stands on the issues that matter most, from immigration to healthcare.

Watch the full series on the CBS News California Investigates YouTube playlist to keep up with the latest developments in this pivotal race.