Trump Stirs Debate on Transgender Athletes at UA

During his commencement speech at the University of Alabama, President Trump reiterated his opposition to transgender women competing in women's sports, promising to 'always protect women's sports' and highlighting his executive order banning trans women from such competitions. He used humor and impersonations to portray scenarios involving transgender athletes, referencing controversial cases including former college swimmer Lia Thomas. Trump also cited recent Department of Education actions threatening to withdraw University of Pennsylvania's federal funding for allegedly violating Title IX by allowing transgender athletes to compete. His remarks sparked both support and criticism, with protests and counter-programming occurring on college campuses. Notably, anti-trans advocate Riley Gaines planned a visit to Portland State University in response. These events underscore the ongoing national debate over transgender inclusion in sports and related campus free speech issues.