Delaware’s groundbreaking congresswoman, Sarah McBride, has taken a firm stand against President Trump’s latest wave of anti-LGBTQ+ policies. At a recent HRC event in New York City, McBride spoke candidly about the impact of these measures, which range from banning transgender athletes to stripping protections for transgender individuals in healthcare and education.
Since his inauguration, Trump has moved swiftly to roll back protections for transgender Americans. His administration now recognizes only two genders—male and female—and has eliminated opportunities for non-binary individuals to identify as ‘X’ on passports. Additionally, Trump has vowed to cut federal funding for schools supporting transgender students and introduced legislation to ban transgender athletes from women’s sports teams.
McBride addressed these actions head-on, criticizing the administration’s fixation on transgender issues. “From day one, they’ve targeted transgender people, forcing us out of government records and interfering in private medical decisions,” she said. “They’re purging patriotic transgender service members and policing bathrooms—all while claiming to protect women.”
Her tone shifted to humor when she remarked, “They’re obsessed—we live rent free in their minds.” But she quickly pivoted to a more serious note, urging activists to rethink their strategies. “We need to invite people in, open hearts, and change minds. This isn’t about preaching to the choir; it’s about reaching those outside this room.”
McBride ended with a powerful message, accusing the administration of exploiting transgender people to further its own agenda. “I won’t be used as a pawn. I won’t let them win.”
