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. Nevertheless, 79 % of Americans believe biological boys identifying as people should not be allowed to participate in women’s activities.
The study, which polled 2,128 individuals, posed the question: “Thinking about transgender women athletes— meaning athletes who were female at conception but who now identify as female — do you think they should or should not be allowed to engage in women’s sports? ”
Survey features
- Democrats: 67 % opposed, 3 % declined to answer.
- Republicans: 94 % opposed, 1 % declined to answer.
- Independents: 64 % opposed, with 26 % refusing to respond.
The results reflect a growing consensus on an issue that has sparked nationwide conversation, especially during the 2024 presidential campaign. Former President Donald Trump made antagonism to transgender athletes in women’s sporting a central theme, galvanizing support among his base and moderate voters.
A Concerned Women for America return surveys further emphasized the issue’s fame, with 70 % of average citizens identifying it as important. Notably, 6 % of respondents named it their top concern, while 44 % deemed it “very important. ”
Congressional drive
The controversy has now shifted to Capitol Hill. The Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, designed to deck trans athletes from competing in women’s teams, passed the House of Representatives with help from two Democrats. The act is expected to advance in the Republican-controlled Senate and could be among the first legislation signed by President-elect Trump.
Traditional perspective
This is n’t the first time public judgment has leaned against transgender cooperation in women’s activities. A 2023 Gallup poll found that nearly 70 % of Americans held similar perspectives. Similarly, a 2024 NORC survey showed that 69 % of respondents opposed adult transgender female athletes competing in women’s leagues.
The bigger portrait
The problem has become a battleground in broader debates over gender identity, justice, and equality in sports. While criticism spans party lines, Liberals ’ growing resistance to trans athletes in women’s activities signals a major shift in public opinion and highlights the challenges of this continued cultural conversation.
