Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) responded to a transgender student’s concerns about Democratic Party support during a More Perfect University event on Thursday night. The student, who identifies as transgender, questioned whether the party had abandoned trans issues as a ‘losing issue.’ Ocasio-Cortez stated, ‘They’re wrong,’ and emphasized that defending trans rights is tied to broader civil rights protections.
At the same event, Ocasio-Cortez reiterated her support for transgender individuals participating in spaces and activities consistent with their gender identity, including sports. Her remarks came amid ongoing debates over policies affecting transgender athletes and rights.
Ocasio-Cortez’s remarks
Ocasio-Cortez was asked by a transgender-identifying student at the University of Southern Maine about perceived Democratic Party neglect of trans issues. The student stated that many trans people feel ‘abandoned’ by the party and questioned whether it was ‘worth defending us.’ Ocasio-Cortez responded directly: ‘They’re wrong.’ She then argued that compromising trans rights would undermine the rights of all Americans, stating, ‘The moment you try to compromise the rights of a trans person in America, you compromise the rights of every citizen in America.’
She did not specify policy changes or legislative actions but framed the issue as a matter of fundamental civil rights. Her comments were made alongside Maine Senate candidate Troy Jackson during the event, which was organized by the advocacy media nonprofit More Perfect Union.
Transgender rights and sports debate
The discussion occurred as states and institutions continue to weigh policies on transgender participation in women’s sports. Ocasio-Cortez’s support for trans inclusion in such spaces aligns with positions taken by many national Democratic leaders, though it remains a contentious issue within the party and across the country.
Critics of trans inclusion in women’s sports argue that biological differences create unfair advantages, while supporters contend that excluding trans athletes from spaces aligning with their gender identity violates civil rights. Ocasio-Cortez did not address specific legislation or athletic policies in her remarks.
Reaction to Ocasio-Cortez’s statements
The event drew attention from national media, with some outlets highlighting her phrasing and others focusing on the broader context of Democratic Party positions on transgender issues. No immediate legislative or organizational responses were reported following her comments.