POLITICS

Washington senator backs Indiana player on transgender sports

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WASHINGTON — Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham received public support on Friday from Sen. Darline Graham, R-S.C., after the WNBA player reiterated her view that it is “common sense” to keep biological males out of women’s sports. Graham issued a statement thanking Cunningham for speaking openly about the issue and said she “could not agree more” with the player’s position. The senator, who described herself as a “volleyball mom,” said years of traveling with her daughter’s volleyball team around South Carolina and the Southeast had shown her “how dangerous it is to have boys playing in girls’ sports,” and she pointed to a North Carolina high school volleyball player who was seriously injured after being hit by a ball from a transgender athlete. INDIANAPOLIS — Cunningham restated her position to reporters on Wednesday before the Fever’s 123-88 victory over the Connecticut Sun, following initial remarks in an ESPN profile that drew backlash. She said, “I said what I said. I think it’s kind of common sense,” adding that she believes protecting women’s sports aligns with the intent of Title IX and that her comments were not an expression of hatred toward transgender people. Cunningham emphasized that she wants to “love biological women” and defend their rights while insisting she has “never once stated” that she hates the transgender community. The Fever later said in a statement that Cunningham’s views are her own and stressed the organization’s commitment to welcoming fans from all backgrounds and treating everyone with respect, as legal and political debates over transgender participation in women’s sports continue nationwide.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Earlier this week, ESPN profile airs featuring Cunningham remarks
Earlier this week, Cunningham questions transgender participation in sports
Wednesday, Cunningham reiterates stance before Connecticut game
Wednesday, Indiana Fever defeat Connecticut Sun 123-88
Friday, Senator Graham issues public supportive statement
Friday, Graham cites daughter’s volleyball safety concerns
Recently, North Carolina volleyball injury case referenced
Recently, national debate intensifies over transgender athletes

Why This Matters to You

This debate affects your rights and community. It's about who can play in women's sports. It could impact your daughter's sports team or your favorite WNBA team. Keep an eye on how this unfolds in your state.

The Bottom Line

Sophie Cunningham's stance on transgender athletes in women's sports is stirring conversation. She's not alone, but her views aren't shared by all. This is a complex issue with no easy answers. Send this to someone who values fair play in sports.