Incoming Rep. Sarah McBride, D-Del., made history in November as the first openly transgender person elected to Congress, and she is already pushing back against Republican lawmakers’ focus on restricting transgender rights. Speaking on CBS’ Face the Nation, McBride criticized the GOP’s recent moves as a distraction from critical issues affecting everyday Americans.
“Every single time we hear them say the word trans, look what they’re doing with their right hand,” McBride said, pointing to what she described as efforts to undermine Social Security, Medicare, and economic protections. “Every bit of time and energy that is used to divert the attention of the federal government to go after trans people is time and energy not focused on addressing the cost of living for our constituents.”
Her comments came in response to new Capitol policies announced by House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., banning transgender individuals from using certain restrooms that align with their gender. The policy follows efforts by Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., to introduce broader legislation targeting restroom access in all federal buildings and schools. These measures have been part of a larger anti-transgender campaign that gained prominence in Republican messaging during the 2024 election cycle, including ads from President-elect Donald Trump.
McBride has sought to shift the focus away from culture wars, emphasizing her dedication to the issues most important to Delawareans. “I didn’t run for the United States House of Representatives to talk about what bathroom I use. I ran to deliver for Delawareans,” she said, underscoring her commitment to addressing economic challenges and other pressing concerns.
Critics, including some from the LGBTQ+ community, have questioned McBride’s decision to comply with Johnson’s restroom policy rather than take a direct stand against it. McBride defended her approach, urging Democrats to push back against dehumanizing language but not let these debates dominate the legislative agenda.
“The way I’m treated is irrelevant,” she said. “What matters is how the American people are being treated and whether we’re actually focused on the issues that matter to them.”