United States President Donald Trump is reportedly preparing to sign an executive order that will bar transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports.
This move marks his latest policy initiative concerning transgender individuals since returning to office.
The executive order, titled the “No Men in Women’s Sports Executive Order,” is set to be officially enacted during a signing ceremony scheduled for 3:00 PM (2000 GMT), according to the White House’s daily briefing.
A Fulfilled Campaign Promise
Trump’s decision aligns with a key pledge he made before his second term, as part of a broader agenda that appeals to his conservative base. Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly reaffirmed the administration’s stance in a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“Today, President Trump will deliver on his promise to PROTECT WOMEN’S SPORTS.”
She further emphasized that the order aims to “end the dangerous and unfair participation of men in women’s sports.”
Political and Cultural Implications
The issue of transgender participation in sports has been a focal point of Republican criticism, particularly in the lead-up to the 2024 election. Conservatives argue that allowing transgender women—who were assigned male at birth—to compete in female sports categories undermines fairness and safety for cisgender women.
This debate is part of a broader cultural and political divide in the United States regarding LGBTQ rights, gender identity, and social policies. While transgender athletes represent a small fraction of the population, their growing visibility has fueled ongoing discussions about gender norms and competitive equity in sports.
By signing this executive order, Trump is expected to further solidify his administration’s position on gender and athletic policies, reinforcing his appeal to conservative voters while intensifying national discourse on transgender rights.
