Tom Steyer, a candidate for governor in California, has voiced strong support for transgender athletes participating in high school sports. During a podcast conversation with Jennifer Welch on “I’ve Had It,” Steyer emphasized the importance of including transgender youth in athletics. He argued that excluding them could worsen the emotional and mental health challenges they face. “I’m totally in favor of trans athletes in high school,” Steyer stated, highlighting the vulnerability and struggles of transgender youth, including high rates of attempted suicide.

Steyer criticized those opposing transgender athlete participation, describing their actions as part of a “right-wing attempt” to stigmatize vulnerable individuals. “This is not some huge epidemic,” he asserted. Steyer expressed empathy for transgender individuals, noting the intense feelings of rejection and sadness that many experience.

Other Democratic candidates vying for the governorship, including Antonio Villaraigosa, Katie Porter, and Xavier Becerra, echoed Steyer’s sentiments. Porter claimed that youth sports aim to build character and teamwork rather than just determine the best athlete. Becerra emphasized the importance of protecting certain groups according to existing state law.

However, responses varied among candidates. Matt Mahan, the Mayor of San Jose, acknowledged potential unfairness if a biological male competed against his daughter in soccer, but decried using the issue to “score political points.” Villaraigosa dismissed the debate as a “non-issue” and expressed his view that biological males who have gone through puberty should not compete in women’s sports.

Republican candidates Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco oppose the current legislation allowing transgender athletes to compete based on gender identity and support overturning it.

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide, reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Taylor Penley is an associate editor at Fox News.