Democrats on Monday blocked a Republican-written bill, aimed at preventing transgender women and girls from competing in female school athletics nationwide. The measure, which Republicans had emphasised during previous elections, fell short of the required 60 votes, resulting in a 51-45 party-line division.
The legislation attempted to establish Title IX protections based on biological characteristics at birth. Republicans have consistently focused on this matter, presenting it as a question of athletic fairness for women and girls, AP news agency reported.
Last month, President Donald Trump issued an executive order granting federal agencies discretion to ensure Title IX compliance by federal funding recipients, based on birth-assigned gender. Congressional Republicans sought to codify this interpretation by modifying the 1972 Title IX law, which safeguards against sex-based discrimination in federally-assisted education programmes.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated, "Around the country we have seen men - biological men who identify as women - take up spaces and medals in athletics meant for actual women. This is a matter of fairness and equality."
"Democrats can stand for women or stand with a radical transgender ideology," he added. If they opposed the legislation, he said, "they'll have to answer to the women and girls they vote to disenfranchise."
Despite passing in the House with minimal Democratic support, the Senate outcome highlighted challenges facing LGBTQ-focused legislation. Democrats criticised the bill as diverting attention from crucial issues and overstepping into local education decisions.
Senator Brian Schatz declared, "What Republicans are doing today is inventing a problem to stir up a culture war and divide people against each other."
Senator Tammy Baldwin noted, "This is a decision for sports leagues to thoughtfully craft policy that actually takes seriously what is best for all players, not blanket mandates that will undoubtedly have unintended consequences for the safety of all students."
Republicans maintain their focus on this issue, with Trump's campaign finding broader appeal beyond party boundaries.
In Minnesota, the state House prepared for similar discussions on GOP legislation affecting primary and secondary schools. Supporters gathered at St Paul's Capitol steps, advocating for girls' sports opportunities and fair competition.