Transgender Americans are bracing for increased hostility following Donald Trump’s election victory, amid concerns that his administration may target trans rights on a federal level. Throughout his campaign, Trump frequently highlighted trans issues, focusing on restrictive policies and anti-trans narratives. Millions of dollars went toward ads that underscored a stance against trans inclusion, despite transgender people comprising less than 1% of the U.S. population.
Trans rights activist Erin Reed expressed concern, saying trans individuals, especially in traditionally liberal states, may face new federal-level restrictions. “The danger is real,” Reed stated, expecting challenges to gender-affirming care and sports inclusion policies, among others. Similarly, Rodrigo Heng-Lehtinen, of Advocates for Trans Equality, noted the environment of hostility fostered by anti-trans rhetoric, which he expects to escalate under Trump’s leadership.
Recent reports, including data from PBS and independent outlets, reveal that Trump’s campaign spent around $95 million on ads targeting trans issues. A significant portion of these ads portrayed trans participation in sports as a focal point, often using misleading imagery. The Gallup and Data for Progress surveys indicate, however, that such rhetoric doesn’t necessarily resonate with most Americans. Nonetheless, advocates are gearing up to protect hard-won rights in what they anticipate will be a difficult term ahead.
Source: Swifteradio.com
