Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune addressed the Senate floor today, emphasizing the importance of protecting women's sports under Title IX. Thune highlighted the historical significance of Title IX in providing equal athletic opportunities for women and girls, stating, "Title IX paved the way for the women’s athletic programs we see today at colleges and universities – and high schools – around the country."

Thune expressed concerns over what he described as threats to these gains, mentioning instances where biological men identifying as women have participated in women's sports. He cited a United Nations report that indicated female athletes have lost medals due to such participation: "'According to information received, by 30 March 2024, over [600] female athletes in more than 400 competitions have lost more than 890 medals in 29 different sports.'"

The Senate leader argued that this issue is not just about physical safety but also fairness and equality, noting that "biologically, men possess physical advantages when it comes to sports." He shared anecdotes of female athletes losing opportunities due to competition with biological males.

Thune referenced a New York Times poll from 2025 showing significant public support for keeping women's sports exclusive to biological females: "79 percent of Americans – including, I might add, a majority of Democrats – believe that biological males identifying as women should not be allowed to play women’s sports."

He praised former President Trump's actions to protect Title IX's original intent and mentioned upcoming legislation from Senator Tuberville aimed at ensuring only women participate in federally funded women's sports. Thune called on Democrats to support this legislation, stating they face a choice between supporting women or what he termed a "radical transgender ideology."

In closing, Thune urged bipartisan cooperation: “I hope Democrats will join Republicans to protect women and women’s sports and vote to proceed to the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act.”