New Resolution Aims to Bar Transgender Women from Women’s Bathrooms in Capitol

A resolution introduced by Republican Congresswoman Nancy Mace seeks to prevent transgender women from using women’s restrooms in the Capitol, a reaction to the election of Sarah McBride, the first openly transgender member of Congress. McBride decried the effort as a distraction from real issues, while Democratic leaders criticized Mace's actions as bullying.

A significant political move has been initiated in the U.S. Capitol, with South Carolina Congresswoman Nancy Mace introducing a bill aimed at barring transgender women from accessing women’s bathrooms. This measure comes just weeks after the historical election of Sarah McBride, who will take her oath of office in January as the first openly transgender member of Congress. Mace stated on Tuesday that her resolution was “absolutely” a reaction to McBride's election, which she viewed as a threat to women’s rights and privacy.

McBride condemned the resolution, labeling it “a blatant attempt from far-right-wing extremists” to distract from substantial problems faced by Americans. During campaign season, Republicans placed significant emphasis on opposition to transgender rights, culminating in remarks from Donald Trump who vowed to keep “transgender insanity the hell out of our schools” and men out of women’s sports.

While Mace’s resolution does not explicitly name McBride, she acknowledged that it was “100 percent because of McBride” during a press conference, expressing concerns over “biological men” in women’s private spaces and describing the endeavor as a stand for women’s safety. In response, McBride offered a message of hope and respect, yearning for the same kindness in Congress that everyday Americans show towards one another.

The resolution has sparked fierce backlash from House Democrats, with Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries accusing Mace of priority misalignment by targeting a fellow member. The timeline for a vote on the measure remains uncertain, but it is anticipated to be incorporated in the upcoming House rules package that new members will vote on post-inauguration.

Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson refrained from confirming whether the proposal would be included in the rules package, stating that the approach would prioritize consensus among lawmakers. He emphasized an intention to treat all members with dignity, assuring that accommodations would be made for everyone in Congress.

As Republican legislatures across the U.S. intensify their scrutiny on transgender-related issues, including limiting access to gender-affirming surgeries for minors and restricting transgender athletes from competing in female categories, the discourse around transgender rights continues to escalate. Notably, Trump had previously supported the idea of transgender students using bathrooms that corresponded with their gender identity during his 2016 campaign but shifted his position amid backlash from members of his party.