President Donald Trump clashed with Democratic Governor of Maine, Janet Mills, on Friday over federal funds he threatened to withhold from states concerning transgender athletes participating in women’s sports.
Trump was addressing both Democratic and Republican governors during a state dinner at the White House when he mentioned his recent executive order banning transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports. He then asked Governor Mills whether Maine would comply, prompting a strong rebuttal from her.
“Better do it, because you won’t receive federal funds,” Trump told Mills.
In response, Mills retorted, “We will follow the law, sir. See you in court.”
Trump responded by saying, “Enjoy your life, Governor, because I don’t think you’ll be an elected official afterward.”
Trump has frequently criticized transgender athletes during his campaign. His executive order has been praised by supporters, claiming it would restore fairness, while critics argue it infringes on the rights of a small minority of athletes.
According to NCAA President Charlie Baker in January, of the 510,000 athletes competing at the collegiate level, fewer than 10 publicly identify as transgender.
Trump is relying on the U.S. Department of Education to enforce the directive by revisiting interpretations of federal civil rights laws. Schools that fail to comply could lose federal funding.
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