Steve Hilton Promises to End Biological Men in Girls' Sports If Elected California Governor
Key Takeaways
- Steve Hilton pledges to end biological men in girls' sports if elected California governor.
- The pledge was voiced during a debate organized by Pastor Jack Hibbs.
- Article notes GOP optimism about winning major state offices this year.
Hilton's Policy Promise
Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton has made a bold promise to prohibit biological males from competing in girls' sports if elected California governor.
“Un candidato a gobernador de California promete poner fin a la “obscenidad de los niños biológicos en los deportes para niñas”, mientras anima a los republicanos a mantenerse optimistas sobre las posibilidades del partido en las difíciles contiendas para ganar importantes cargos estatales este año”
Hilton condemned the current policy allowing transgender male athletes to participate in girls' state track championships, expressing disgust that a 'biological boy' was 'robbing trophies, honor and glory from girls who worked so hard.'
The former Fox News host vowed to repeal Assembly Bill 1266, the 2013 legislation that enabled transgender male athletes to compete in girls' sports, calling the measure unconstitutional and a violation of gender equality principles.
Hilton emphasized that the law violates Article 28 of the California Constitution regarding 'protection of safety in schools' and pledged to 'end the obscenity of biological boys in girls sports.'
Demonstrating his commitment, Hilton revealed he wears a bracelet given to him by a female sports activist and pledged to continue wearing it until his goal is achieved.
Policy and Constitutional Context
Hilton's stance on transgender athletes in sports represents a significant shift in California's policy landscape if he were to win the governorship.
The 2013 Assembly Bill 1266, which he has pledged to repeal, was a landmark piece of legislation that allowed transgender students to participate in school sports programs consistent with their gender identity.
“Un candidato a gobernador de California promete poner fin a la “obscenidad de los niños biológicos en los deportes para niñas”, mientras anima a los republicanos a mantenerse optimistas sobre las posibilidades del partido en las difíciles contiendas para ganar importantes cargos estatales este año”
Hilton has framed this issue as a matter of constitutional principle and gender equality, arguing that the current law discriminates against female athletes by creating an unfair competitive advantage.
His rhetoric has been passionate and visceral, describing the situation as an 'obscenity' and emphasizing the stolen opportunities for girls who have 'worked so hard' for their achievements.
Electoral Positioning
The California gubernatorial race appears highly competitive according to recent polling data, with Hilton positioned as a strong contender who could advance to the general election.
“Un candidato a gobernador de California promete poner fin a la “obscenidad de los niños biológicos en los deportes para niñas”, mientras anima a los republicanos a mantenerse optimistas sobre las posibilidades del partido en las difíciles contiendas para ganar importantes cargos estatales este año”
The nonpartisan primary format, where all candidates compete on the same ballot regardless of party affiliation, suggests Hilton has a realistic path forward.
An Emerson College poll of 1,000 likely voters conducted December 1-2, 2025, showed Republican Chad Bianco leading with 13% support, while Hilton and Democratic candidate Eric Swalwell were tied for second place with 12% each.
Democratic Katie Porter followed closely with 11% support.
This tight race indicates that Hilton's controversial stance on transgender athletes could resonate with significant segments of California's electorate, potentially positioning him as a viable alternative to both mainstream Republican and Democratic candidates.
Political Strategy and Symbolism
Hilton's political positioning on this issue reflects the broader cultural and legal battles occurring across the United States regarding transgender rights and sports participation.
His promise to repeal AB 1266 places him at the forefront of the conservative movement seeking to restrict transgender athletes' participation in female sports categories.
“Un candidato a gobernador de California promete poner fin a la “obscenidad de los niños biológicos en los deportes para niñas”, mientras anima a los republicanos a mantenerse optimistas sobre las posibilidades del partido en las difíciles contiendas para ganar importantes cargos estatales este año”
The former Fox News host has framed his position as defending female athletes and upholding constitutional principles, though his rhetoric has drawn criticism from LGBTQ+ advocates who view such policies as discriminatory and harmful to transgender youth.
The bracelet Hilton wears, given to him by a female sports activist, symbolizes his personal commitment to this issue and suggests he views the issue as both politically significant and morally urgent.
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