In the tumultuous arena of American politics, few issues have seen as much fluctuation as Donald Trump’s stance on transgender rights. A recent advertisement for his 2024 presidential campaign boldly declared, “Kamala is for they/them. Trump is for you,” signaling a firm position against progressive gender policies. Yet, a resurfaced clip from 2016 reveals a starkly different Trump—one who advocated for transgender individuals to “use the bathroom that they feel is appropriate.” This dramatic shift over eight years underscores a pattern of political expediency overshadowing genuine empathy, a trend with profound implications for transgender individuals, their families, and allies.
The 2016 Town Hall: A Moment of Acceptance
In April 2016, during his initial run for the presidency, Donald Trump participated in a live town hall on NBC’s “Today” show. At the time, North Carolina was embroiled in controversy over House Bill 2 (HB2), commonly known as the “bathroom bill,” which required individuals to use restrooms corresponding to the sex on their birth certificates. When asked about his views on this legislation, Trump surprised many by opposing it.
“Leave it the way it is,” he urged. “North Carolina, what they’re going through with all the business that’s leaving, all of the strife—and that’s on both sides—you leave it the way it is.” He emphasized that there had been “very few complaints the way it is” and that people should “use the bathroom that they feel is appropriate.”
When pressed about whether Caitlyn Jenner, a transgender woman and a prominent figure at the time, would be welcome to use any bathroom she preferred in Trump Tower, he affirmed, “That is correct.” This response painted Trump as a candidate open to inclusivity, offering a glimmer of hope to transgender Americans seeking recognition and acceptance.
A Reversal in Office: Policies Speak Louder Than Words
However, Trump’s presidency told a different story. Just two months into his term, his administration rescinded Obama-era federal protections that had allowed transgender students to use bathrooms matching their gender identities in public schools. This move marked the beginning of a series of policy decisions that would undermine transgender rights.
In 2017, Trump announced a ban on transgender individuals serving in the U.S. military, a decision communicated abruptly via Twitter. This policy reversal not only contradicted his earlier sentiments but also affected thousands of active service members and those aspiring to serve.
Two years into his presidency, the Department of Health and Human Services proposed a rule enabling faith-based foster care and adoption agencies to receive federal funding while discriminating against LGBTQ+ parents. Such policies reinforced barriers for transgender individuals and families seeking to adopt or foster children, further marginalizing an already vulnerable community.
Human Rights Campaign President Alphonso David denounced Trump as “the worst president on LGBTQ issues ever,” highlighting the chasm between Trump’s earlier statements and his administrative actions.
2024 Campaign Trail: Amplifying Anti-Trans Rhetoric
As Trump campaigned for a return to the White House in 2024, his rhetoric has intensified against transgender rights. At a National Rifle Association (NRA) speech in April, he vowed to direct the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate whether “transgender hormone treatments and ideology increase the risk of extreme depression, aggression, and even violence.” This stance not only stigmatizes essential medical care but also perpetuates unfounded fears about transgender individuals.
His “Agenda 47” promises to cut federal funding for schools that, in his view, push “radical gender ideology” onto students. Trump has pledged to bar transgender athletes from participating in sports teams aligning with their gender identity and has labeled gender-affirming healthcare for minors as “child abuse” and “child sexual mutilation.” Such statements disregard the medical consensus on the necessity and benefits of gender-affirming care for transgender youth.
Trump’s shift toward a hardline stance appears to be a strategic move to galvanize a conservative base increasingly focused on anti-transgender legislation. Republican candidates have spent over $65 million on anti-transgender ads this election cycle, according to The New York Times, reflecting a broader trend within the party.
The consequences of such rhetoric are tangible and distressing. Following Trump’s election in 2016, The Trevor Project, a nonprofit dedicated to suicide prevention among LGBTQ+ youth, reported a nearly 200% increase in young people reaching out with election-related anxieties. Words from leaders have profound effects on marginalized communities, influencing public perception and, in turn, the safety and well-being of transgender individuals.
Evan Greer, a transgender rights activist and director of Fight for the Future, confronted Representative Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) during a panel discussion, highlighting the direct link between political rhetoric and violence against transgender people. “We had dozens of trans people die this year because of the hate and lies that you are spreading,” Greer asserted, emphasizing the human toll behind political discourse.
Congressional Actions: A Step Backward
The election of Sarah McBride as the first transgender member of Congress represents a significant milestone for transgender representation in government. However, even before taking office, McBride has become the target of discriminatory policies. Representative Nancy Mace introduced a resolution aimed at barring transgender individuals from using restrooms aligning with their gender identity within the Capitol—a move widely seen as a direct attack on McBride.
“I’m not here to fight about bathrooms. I’m here to fight for Delawareans and to bring down the costs facing families,” McBride responded, displaying a commitment to her constituents over engaging in divisive politics.
Such actions harken back to darker times in American history when segregation was legally enforced and marginalized groups were denied basic rights. The reintroduction of segregated bathrooms in the Capitol not only undermines progress but also sends a troubling message about whose rights are valued.
Transgender lawmakers and allies are not remaining silent in the face of these challenges. Montana State Representative Zooey Zephyr, the first transgender woman in her state’s legislature, has faced her own battles, including censure and exclusion from the House floor. “The hate of trans people is boundless… That hate is on display at every moment, which is why it’s important for us to resist these efforts to target our community,” Zephyr stated, emphasizing the relentless nature of discrimination.
Even within Republican ranks, there is dissent. Natalie Johnson, former communications director for Nancy Mace, publicly criticized the congresswoman’s actions. “If you think this bill is about protecting women and not simply a ploy to get on Fox News, you’ve been fooled,” Johnson wrote, suggesting that such policies are more about political grandstanding than genuine concern.
The use of personal trauma to justify broad discriminatory policies raises significant ethical concerns. Mace has cited her own experiences with sexual abuse as motivation for her stance, stating, “We have to as women draw a line in the sand, a big fat red line, about our rights.” While acknowledging the importance of addressing sexual violence, conflating personal experiences with the rights of transgender individuals perpetuates harmful myths and ignores evidence that inclusive policies do not increase safety risks.
Critics argue that focusing on transgender individuals in restrooms distracts from more pressing issues, such as addressing sexual misconduct within Congress itself. Representative Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.) questioned the prioritization of such legislation, implying that it serves more as a distraction than a solution.
The Path Forward: Embracing Empathy Over Politics
Donald Trump’s evolution from a candidate who expressed support for transgender individuals to a president and presidential hopeful who actively works against their rights illustrates a broader trend of prioritizing political gain over empathy. For transgender individuals, their families, and allies, this flip-flopping is not just a political maneuver—it has real-world implications that affect their daily lives and fundamental rights.
As the political landscape continues to shift, the importance of recognizing and challenging policies rooted in discrimination becomes ever more critical. Advocacy groups, allies in Congress, and activists on the ground play vital roles in pushing back against regressive measures and promoting a message of inclusion and respect.
Sarah McBride’s poised response to targeted legislation exemplifies the resilience and focus needed to navigate these challenges. “I’m here to fight for Delawareans,” she reiterated, signaling a commitment to serving her constituents rather than engaging in divisive politics.
The Bottom Line
The transgender community faces a pivotal moment in the fight for equality. Political leaders who once showed signs of support have reversed course, using transgender rights as a battleground for political advantage. For transgender individuals and their allies, staying informed and united is essential.
Discrimination thrives when empathy is sidelined in favor of expediency. By holding leaders accountable for their words and actions, advocating for evidence-based policies, and fostering inclusive communities, progress can continue despite setbacks.
In the words of Representative Zooey Zephyr, “It’s important that we make sure as trans people in this country that we do not cede ground to someone who wants to erase us.” The path forward lies in embracing diversity, challenging discrimination, and ensuring that all individuals can live with dignity and respect—regardless of the shifting tides of political fortune.
