Maine Governor Janet Mills has publicly defended the state’s inclusion of transgender athletes in girls’ sports following a lawsuit filed against Maine by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). The lawsuit challenges the state’s approach, arguing that it violates Title IX regulations.

Governor Mills’ Statement

In her statement, Governor Mills proclaimed, “I have fought tirelessly for the rights of women and girls, for the health and well-being of children and families.” This assertion has sparked significant debate among state lawmakers and citizens.

Republican Criticism

Prominent GOP representative Laurel Libby has been a vocal opponent of Mills’ claims. She stated, “Let me be clear, Governor Janet Mills’ claim that she has always stood up for the rights of women and girls in Maine is completely false.” Libby pointed to the DOJ’s lawsuit as evidence that Mills’ administration is failing to uphold women’s rights within sports.

Libby further criticized Mills, arguing that the focus on trans inclusion in sports overlooks “biological reality,” branding it a dangerous ideology. She stated, “By disregarding Title IX, they’ve discriminated against and endangered women and girls.”

Background of the Controversy

The controversy intensified after former President Donald Trump signed an executive order in February, aimed at prohibiting biological males from competing in women’s sports, prompting a swift response from Maine. The state was among the first to declare its intention to resist compliance with this order.

Libby gained attention for highlighting the state’s policies through social media, identifying a trans athlete who recently competed in a girls’ pole vault event. This led to investigations by federal agencies, with one freezing state funding. In response, Maine has also filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration to challenge the funding freeze.

Political Response and Actions

In light of the recent political tensions, the Maine House of Representatives took action against Libby for her social media post, resulting in a censure based on the identification of a minor. Libby has since filed a lawsuit against House Speaker Ryan Fecteau to contest this censure, arguing that the athlete’s identity was already public knowledge.