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Tag: Sarah McBride

  • Sarah McBride Claps Back at GOP Critics: ‘I Live Rent Free in Their Minds’

    Sarah McBride Claps Back at GOP Critics: ‘I Live Rent Free in Their Minds’

    Delaware Congresswoman Sarah McBride, the first openly transgender member of Congress, criticized Republican lawmakers for fixating on her gender identity rather than addressing critical policy issues affecting Americans. McBride’s remarks came during the Democrats’ annual retreat in Leesburg, Virginia, on Wednesday.

    “I appear to live rent-free in the minds of some of my Republican colleagues,” McBride said, referencing ongoing attacks from GOP members who have continually focused on her identity rather than substantive legislation.

    The comments followed an incident just days prior when Rep. Keith Self, a Texas Republican and chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s subpanel on Europe, misgendered McBride multiple times during a hearing. Self referred to her as “Mister McBride,” prompting an immediate response from Rep. Bill Keating, the ranking Democrat on the subcommittee, who demanded a correction. Self, however, adjourned the hearing instead of apologizing.

    Despite the ongoing attacks, McBride remained steadfast in her criticism of the GOP’s preoccupation with culture war issues. “I wish that they would spend even a fraction of the time that they spend thinking about me, thinking about how to lower the costs for American families,” McBride said. “I wish they would spend a fraction of the time that they spend thinking about me, figuring out how to make government actually work better, rather than making it work worse in order to prove that government can’t work.”

    The incident is the latest in a series of attacks from Republican lawmakers against McBride since she took office in January. Earlier this year, House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, enacted a policy restricting transgender individuals from using restrooms that align with their gender identity in the Capitol. The move sparked national outrage and was widely condemned by LGBTQ+ advocates as an attempt to marginalize transgender Americans.

    The bathroom ban led to another controversial moment when Reps. Lauren Boebert of Colorado and Nancy Mace of South Carolina confronted a cisgender woman in the Capitol restroom, mistakenly believing her to be McBride. The situation highlighted the potential dangers of the policy and prompted further criticism from LGBTQ+ groups.

    “The Republican Party is obsessed with culture war issues,” McBride said, expressing frustration with the GOP’s ongoing focus on divisive topics. “It is weird, and it is bizarre. And the American people deserve serious legislators, serious elected officials who are focused on bringing people together to deliver real results for the American people. Not to play games, and not to engage in schoolyard taunts.”

    McBride also responded directly to GOP complaints about decorum. “We will not take a lecture on decorum from a party that incited an insurrection,” she stated, referencing the January 6 Capitol attack led by pro-Trump rioters.

    Her remarks underscore the growing tension between the Democratic and Republican parties, particularly in the aftermath of the 2020 election and the ongoing culture wars surrounding LGBTQ+ rights. As McBride continues her term, she has become a target of Republican rhetoric, but her ability to rise above the personal attacks has made her a strong voice for both transgender rights and progressive policies in Congress.

  • Rep. Sarah McBride Stands Strong After Misgendering Incident in Congress, Sparks Support from Allies

    Rep. Sarah McBride Stands Strong After Misgendering Incident in Congress, Sparks Support from Allies

    A tense moment unfolded during a House Foreign Relations Subcommittee meeting when Chairman Keith Self (R-TX) deliberately misgendered Representative Sarah McBride (D-DE), the first openly transgender member of Congress. Self referred to McBride as the “Gentleman from Delaware,” prompting a sharp response from McBride, who addressed him as “Madam Chair” in return.

    The exchange set off a heated protest from Democrats, with ranking minority member Bill Keating (D-MA) demanding, “Have you no decency?” The confrontation escalated quickly, and after several objections, Self abruptly adjourned the hearing.

    The incident began when Self recognized McBride, stating, “I recognize the representative from Delaware, Mr. McBride.”

    McBride immediately corrected him, replying, “Thank you, Madam Chair,” before beginning her remarks. However, Self did not acknowledge the error, and Keating, visibly upset, interrupted to demand clarification.

    “Mr. Chairman… could you repeat your instruction again, please?” Keating asked.

    Self attempted to justify his actions, referencing a supposed standard on the House floor. “Yes, we have set the standard on the floor of the House, and I’m simply—”

    Keating cut him off. “What is that standard, Mr. Chairman? Could you repeat what you just said? When you introduced a duly elected representative from the United States of America. Please.”

    Self reiterated, “I will. The representative from Delaware, Mr. McBride.”

    Keating, his voice rising, expressed his disbelief, “Mr. Chairman, you are out of order. Have you no decency? I’ve come to know you a little bit, but this is not decent.”

    Despite the growing tensions, Self insisted the hearing would continue. “We will continue this hearing,” he declared.

    Keating was resolute. “You will not continue it with me unless you introduce a duly elected representative the right way!”

    With no further discussion, Self ended the session abruptly.

    The exchange underscores a broader trend of increasing hostility toward McBride, who has frequently been targeted by Republicans with demeaning rhetoric and bathroom bans. Some critics have previously expressed frustration at McBride’s responses to such attacks, believing she had not always confronted them head-on. However, her quick and assertive response in this instance, along with the vocal support from Democratic colleagues, suggests a shift in how McBride and her party may handle such provocations moving forward.

    The incident also highlights the deepening erosion of decorum and respect for transgender individuals in Congress. Republican members have openly misgendered McBride without facing any significant consequences, treating basic respect as optional. This lack of accountability contrasts sharply with the criticism directed at McBride and her colleagues when they push back against such actions, often framing their responses as disruptive or inappropriate. The double standard is glaring.

    McBride’s experience points to an ongoing pattern of escalating attacks against her in Congress, as Republican rhetoric against transgender rights continues to intensify. The attacks, while personally hurtful, are not just about McBride’s dignity—they reflect the broader struggles of the transgender community, whose members she represents.

    Keating’s defense of McBride suggests that some Democrats are ready to confront the growing hostility directly, potentially shifting how such situations are managed in the future. For transgender Americans and their allies, the exchange was painful to witness, but it also underscored a growing willingness among some lawmakers to challenge the increasingly hostile rhetoric in Congress. As McBride continues her work in the House, it is clear that the battle for respect and recognition is far from over.

  • Rep. Lauren Boebert Apologizes After Mistakenly Accusing Woman of Being Transgender in Capitol Restroom

    Rep. Lauren Boebert Apologizes After Mistakenly Accusing Woman of Being Transgender in Capitol Restroom

    Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) issued a public apology on Thursday after a reported mix-up in a U.S. Capitol restroom led to her accusing a cisgender woman of being transgender. The incident, which was first reported by The Daily Beast, occurred after Boebert allegedly confronted the woman and told her, “You shouldn’t be here,” mistaking her for Rep. Sarah McBride (D-DE), a transgender member of Congress.

    According to an anonymous Republican source, Boebert was under the impression that McBride was in the women’s restroom and called on Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC), a known opponent of transgender-inclusive policies, to address the situation. Mace, who has been vocal in her criticism of policies allowing transgender people to use restrooms consistent with their gender identity, reportedly “stormed in” to the restroom. However, both Boebert and Mace quickly realized that the woman in question was not McBride, but a cisgender individual.

    Boebert later acknowledged her mistake, offering an apology and clarifying that it was a case of mistaken identity. “I made an error regarding a mistaken identity,” she said in a statement. “I apologized, learned a lesson, and it won’t happen again.”

    This incident unfolded as Boebert was reportedly upset by the presence of a “man” in the women’s restroom, a claim that turned out to be unfounded. Boebert later told Bloomberg News reporter Billy House, “There was a rumor there was [a man in the bathroom], but it wasn’t true.”

    House, who was present at the scene, described the events in a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter). He recounted how Boebert emerged from the Capitol restroom during a vote series, visibly upset and complaining to nearby security personnel about the supposed presence of a man in the women’s bathroom. House remained near the scene and witnessed several women leaving the restroom, including the woman Boebert had initially accused of being McBride.

    Shortly afterward, Boebert returned to the restroom, this time accompanied by Rep. Mace. The two entered the restroom but quickly exited, realizing the situation was not as Boebert had originally claimed.

    “Who would dare leave this scene now? Not me,” House wrote, recounting the unusual scene. “But alas, just seconds after this duo entered the bathroom, they come back out — and went back quietly to the floor. A bit of bathroom vigilantism?”

    After the situation calmed, House approached Boebert for an explanation. She admitted her mistake, saying that it was a case of mistaken identity. “I later asked Boebert what this was all about, noting I had heard her complain there was ‘a guy’ in there. To her credit, she acknowledged it was a mistake,” House wrote.

    Boebert, a frequent critic of transgender rights, has made controversial statements in the past regarding transgender issues. She has been outspoken in her opposition to trans-inclusive policies in schools, claiming such policies “radicalize” students and contribute to mental health issues, including school shootings. Her stance on transgender issues has often put her at odds with more progressive lawmakers, particularly those who advocate for the rights of transgender individuals.

    This incident is not the first time Boebert has been involved in a restroom-related controversy. In January 2023, Boebert reportedly engaged in a heated argument with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) in a Capitol women’s restroom. Both women are known for their vocal opposition to transgender rights, and the altercation between them further highlighted the tensions surrounding this issue within the Republican Party.

    While Boebert’s recent apology may quell some immediate fallout, the incident has once again drawn attention to the contentious debate over transgender rights in the U.S. Capitol and beyond. The situation also underscores the ongoing cultural and political divide over issues of gender identity and inclusion.

    As lawmakers continue to grapple with these sensitive issues, Boebert’s public apology signals a moment of reflection on her part. However, it remains to be seen whether this incident will affect her stance on transgender rights in the future.

    For now, Boebert’s remarks serve as a reminder of the complexities surrounding gender identity and the importance of respectful dialogue on such matters. Despite her apology, the controversy is likely to persist, especially given the polarized nature of the debate.

  • Rep. Sarah McBride Appointed Deputy Whip for Policy in 119th Congress

    Rep. Sarah McBride Appointed Deputy Whip for Policy in 119th Congress

    Rep. Sarah McBride (D-DE), the first openly transgender person elected to the U.S. Congress, has been appointed Deputy Whip for Policy in the 119th Congress. The announcement marks a significant milestone in McBride’s political career as she continues to advocate for policy changes that directly impact the lives of working families, particularly in the areas of healthcare, housing, and child care.

    “I’m thrilled to be named a Deputy Whip for Policy in the 119th Congress, advising House Democratic Leadership on policy priorities and plans for our caucus,” McBride wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter). “Just as I was in the State Senate, I remain focused on lowering the cost of housing, health care, child care, and helping families thrive.”

    McBride’s appointment as Deputy Whip for Policy is a reflection of her growing influence within the Democratic Party, as well as her unwavering commitment to pushing forward progressive policies that prioritize the well-being of American families. McBride has made it clear that she intends to work on legislation aimed at reducing the financial burdens many families face, particularly in terms of affordable healthcare, housing, and childcare costs.

    My number one priority in Congress is helping to lower costs facing Delawareans and American families. We can do this by guaranteeing paid family and medical leave, lowering the cost of childcare and restoring the child tax credit.

    — Congresswoman Sarah McBride (@mcbride.house.gov) 2025-01-16T21:51:06.364Z

    On the social media platform Bluesky, McBride also shared her goals for the upcoming legislative session. “I want to make sure we pass bills that provide paid family and medical leave, lower the cost of childcare, and restore the child tax credit,” she stated, emphasizing her dedication to securing policies that provide economic relief to struggling families.

    Understanding the Role of a Whip in Congress

    In the U.S. House of Representatives, the role of a whip is essential for ensuring party discipline and unity when it comes to voting on legislation. A whip is responsible for rallying party members and ensuring they vote according to the party’s stance on important bills. The current Democratic whip is Rep. Katherine Clark (D-MA), and McBride’s new position as Deputy Whip for Policy will see her assisting in the development of key policy initiatives and working with Democratic leadership to shape the legislative agenda.

    As Deputy Whip for Policy, McBride’s primary role will involve working closely with leadership to ensure that Democratic representatives are aligned on critical votes. She will also help drive discussions on policy priorities, particularly in areas that are close to her heart, including economic justice, healthcare access, and policies aimed at helping working families.

    McBride’s Historic Election and Legislative Priorities

    McBride made history in November 2022 when she became the first openly transgender person elected to the U.S. Congress. Her election to represent Delaware’s 1st District in the U.S. House of Representatives was widely seen as a victory for LGBTQ+ rights and a testament to the power of inclusivity in politics. In an interview on MSNBC after her win, McBride reflected on the significance of her historic election.

    “I think this victory is a testament to Delawarians,” she said. “In our state of neighbors, we are fair-minded, that we judge candidates based on their ideas and not their identities. And I think voters across the state of Delaware — Democrats, independents, and Republicans alike — responded to our message of building a government that respects all of us.”

    McBride’s campaign focused on policies aimed at supporting working families, regardless of party affiliation. “I was really singularly focused on bringing down costs facing workers, their families, and retirees,” she said. During her tenure in the Delaware Senate, McBride championed policies such as paid family and medical leave and led efforts to secure a substantial increase in the state’s Medicaid program. Her ability to work across the aisle, gaining bipartisan support, was a key aspect of her legislative success.

    In contrast to the GOP’s anti-trans messaging, McBride ran a campaign centered on unity and inclusivity, focusing on practical solutions for everyday Americans. “We put forward a positive, inclusive message during the course of this year-and-a-half-long campaign, and I think voters really responded to that,” she added.

    McBride’s Continued Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Rights

    As the first openly transgender member of Congress, McBride has also become an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights on the national stage. Throughout her career, she has fought to ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals have access to the same rights and protections as everyone else. Her historic election was seen as a step forward for LGBTQ+ representation in politics, and her role as Deputy Whip for Policy will undoubtedly amplify her voice in future policy discussions.

    McBride’s rise to leadership within the House Democratic Caucus is not only a victory for the LGBTQ+ community but also an indication of the growing influence of progressive voices within the party. Her advocacy for economic policies that benefit working families, combined with her commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, positions her as a key figure in shaping the direction of the 119th Congress.

    As McBride begins her role as Deputy Whip for Policy, all eyes will be on her as she works to help pass vital legislation that addresses issues such as paid family leave, the cost of childcare, and healthcare access. Her leadership promises to be a powerful force in the ongoing fight for economic and social justice in America.

    Rep. Sarah McBride’s appointment as Deputy Whip for Policy in the 119th Congress is a significant step in her political career and a testament to her unwavering commitment to progressive values. From advocating for affordable healthcare and housing to pushing for paid family and medical leave, McBride is dedicated to improving the lives of American families. As the first openly transgender person elected to Congress, McBride’s rise to leadership underscores the importance of diversity and inclusivity in shaping the nation’s legislative priorities.

  • Transgender People Banned from Using Gender-Aligned Bathrooms Near House Chamber Under New Policy

    Transgender People Banned from Using Gender-Aligned Bathrooms Near House Chamber Under New Policy

    Transgender individuals will not be allowed to use single-sex bathrooms that align with their gender identities near the House Chamber, according to a policy reinstated Friday by Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La. The policy, which has sparked controversy, was included in a list of rules for the 119th Congress and was officially noted in the Congressional Record, a daily account of legislative proceedings.

    However, the policy was not part of the House rules package approved Friday during the House’s first session. The rules for the session primarily dealt with other matters of procedure but did not specifically address the bathroom policy.

    According to the policy, all single-sex facilities—such as restrooms, changing rooms, and locker rooms—will be designated for individuals based on their biological sex. The measure applies to areas of the Capitol under the Speaker’s control, including the House chamber, corridors, and other rooms assigned to the House, as detailed in the Congressional Record.

    The policy will be enforced by the Capitol sergeant-at-arms, and it impacts a number of facilities within the House-controlled section of the Capitol. The Congressional Record also clarified that each Member office has its own private restroom, and unisex restrooms are available throughout the Capitol, offering an alternative to the restricted facilities.

    This ban has its roots in a proposal initially introduced by Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., in November, following the election of Rep. Sarah McBride, D-Del., the first openly transgender person elected to the U.S. Congress. Mace’s proposal was a direct response to McBride’s election, stating that she would fight any effort to allow transgender women into women’s restrooms and changing rooms.

    Mace was vocal in her opposition to transgender people using facilities based on their gender identity. “I’m absolutely 100% gonna stand in the way of any man who wants to be in a women’s restroom, in our locker rooms, in our changing rooms,” she said at the time, despite McBride being a woman and a member of Congress. Mace also said she would work to introduce legislation that codifies this bathroom policy into law.

    Speaker Johnson expressed his support for Mace’s effort when it was first introduced, emphasizing that women should have spaces that are exclusive to them. “Women deserve women’s only spaces,” Johnson said in November.

    Rep. Mace reiterated her stance on Friday, confirming that she would push to introduce legislation to codify the bathroom policy in Congress. While the issue is not yet law, Mace contends that the policy has effectively been in place since Johnson expressed his support for it in the fall.

    For McBride, the bathroom policy represents a distraction from more important issues, particularly those related to economic inequality and climate change. In a statement, McBride expressed disappointment that Republicans continue to focus on such issues, adding, “I always knew that there would be some members of the Republican caucus who would seek to use my service representing the greatest state in the Union in Congress as an opportunity for them to distract from the fact that they have absolutely no real policy solutions for the issues that actually plague this country.”

    McBride, who represents Delaware in Congress, was not surprised by the policy but expressed disappointment in its timing. “I was not surprised that there was an effort to politicize an issue that no one truly cares about—what bathroom I use,” McBride said. “I did think that it might wait until January. It happened a little earlier than I anticipated.”

    A spokesperson for McBride declined to provide further comment on Speaker Johnson’s policy.

    In recent years, anti-transgender rhetoric has become more prevalent in some parts of the Republican Party, especially during election seasons. However, despite this focus, former President Donald Trump recently downplayed the issue, agreeing with McBride that lawmakers should focus on other matters.

    “I do agree with that. On that—absolutely,” Trump said in a recent interview with Time magazine. “I don’t want to get into the bathroom issue. Because it’s a very small number of people we’re talking about, and it’s ripped apart our country, so they’ll have to settle whatever the law finally agrees.”

    Despite McBride’s objections, it appears the policy will remain in place unless further changes are made in Congress. With partisan division still prevalent, this issue is likely to remain a point of contention in future legislative discussions.