In a striking display of bipartisan agreement, a recent New York Times/Ipsos survey revealed that 67% of Democrats oppose transgender athletes competing in women’s sports—a sentiment mirrored by 94% of Republicans. Overall, 79% of Americans believe biological males identifying as women should not be allowed to participate in women’s sports.
The survey, which polled 2,128 individuals, posed the question: “Thinking about transgender female athletes — meaning athletes who were male at birth but who currently identify as female — do you think they should or should not be allowed to compete in women’s sports?”
Survey highlights
- Democrats: 67% opposed, 3% declined to answer.
- Republicans: 94% opposed, 1% declined to answer.
- Independents: 64% opposed, with 26% refusing to respond.
The findings reflect a growing consensus on an issue that has sparked national debate, particularly during the 2024 presidential campaign. Former President Donald Trump made opposition to transgender athletes in women’s sports a central theme, galvanizing support among his base and moderate voters.
A Concerned Women for America exit poll further emphasized the issue’s prominence, with 70% of moderate voters identifying it as significant. Notably, 6% of respondents named it their top concern, while 44% deemed it “very important.”
Legislative push
The debate has now shifted to Capitol Hill. The Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, designed to bar transgender athletes from competing in women’s leagues, passed the House of Representatives with support from two Democrats. The bill is expected to advance in the Republican-controlled Senate and could be among the first laws signed by President-elect Trump.
Historical context
This isn’t the first time public opinion has leaned against transgender participation in women’s sports. A 2023 Gallup poll found that nearly 70% of Americans held similar views. Similarly, a 2024 NORC survey showed that 69% of respondents opposed adult transgender female athletes competing in women’s leagues.
The bigger picture
The issue has become a flashpoint in broader debates over gender identity, fairness, and inclusivity in sports. While opposition spans party lines, Democrats’ growing resistance to transgender athletes in women’s sports signals a significant shift in public opinion and highlights the complexities of this ongoing cultural debate.
