Sen. Ed Markey is drawing online backlash after affirming support for transgender athletes in girls’ sports during a Massachusetts Democratic Senate primary debate. The longtime senator said allowing such participation “is the law in Massachusetts” and described it as “the correct law,” adding that for him it is “absolutely essential.” The clip, shared by RNC Research on X, has prompted strong reactions centered on questions of fairness for female athletes.
In the video, which is taken from a Massachusetts Senate primary debate, a moderator asks Sen. Ed Markey whether he thinks transgender athletes should be allowed in girls’ sports. Markey replies, “Yes, I do. That is the law in Massachusetts, and I think it’s the correct law…for me, it’s absolutely essential.” The footage shows Markey speaking at a podium under an on-screen graphic reading “TRANSGENDER ATHLETES IN WOMEN’S SPORTS.” The clip does not show the full exchange or responses from other candidates.
The debate was co-hosted by WCVB, WBUR, and The Boston Globe. According to the post, the segment focuses on Markey’s direct affirmation of the state’s existing policy.
Responses to the Trans Athletes Exchange in Massachusetts
Several users directed criticism at Markey personally, with one calling him “a disgusting excuse for a man” elected by “mental midgets,” and another stating, “In fairness, Ed Markey is much dumber than a literal potato.”
Others focused on fairness for female athletes, asking, “What about the protections of the actual girls?” and noting concerns about “men in girls’ locker rooms and bathrooms.”
Some commenters expressed broader disbelief, describing the remarks as coming from “a grown-ass man” living “in an alternate reality from common sense,” labeling the position “Crazy!” and saying “In a lunatic libtard state you can get away with that.”
The exchange has become one more point of discussion in the Massachusetts Democratic Senate primary. The clip continues to circulate as part of the wider online conversation surrounding the candidates’ positions on transgender athletes in sports.
