Senate Democrats encountered significant criticism on Monday after the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act failed to secure the necessary votes to overcome the filibuster. Republicans required 60 votes but only managed to obtain 51, with no Democrats supporting the bill. Two Democrats and two Republicans were absent during the vote, resulting in a failure of 51-45.
The Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act aims to amend Title IX to define gender based solely on an individual’s reproductive biology and genetics at birth, prohibiting any adjustments for gender identity. Introduced by Senator Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., the bill has garnered over 40 co-sponsors in the Senate and seeks to codify one of former President Trump’s recent executive orders, enhancing the policy’s durability.
House Speaker Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La., along with activists advocating for fairness in women’s and girls’ sports, criticized Senate Democrats for their lack of support for the legislation. Notably, two House Democrats had previously voted in favor of the bill in January.
Johnson expressed his disbelief at the Democrats’ stance, stating, “That is shocking. I cannot believe that the Democrats will not go along with common sense on this and the protection of women and girls.” Prominent figures such as Riley Gaines and Jennifer Sey also shared their thoughts on social media.
Last month, President Donald Trump issued an executive order prohibiting biological males from competing in women’s and girls’ sports, threatening to withhold federal funding from states that allow transgender inclusion in these categories. The bill supported by Tuberville would have implemented similar measures.
