California gubernatorial candidate Tom Steyer is drawing attention after publicly expressing support for transgender athlete AB Hernandez, a biological male competing in girls’ track and field events.

According to video footage shared by Steyer on X, the Democratic candidate met with Hernandez and the athlete’s mother in what appeared to be a friendly conversation ahead of a state championship competition.

During the exchange, Steyer spoke about what he views as the responsibility of government leadership, stating that it is “the job of the governor to stand between danger and Californians.” He also offered words of encouragement to Hernandez, saying, “I’m so proud of you for what you’re doing” and “so proud of you for competing.”

Steyer went on to wish Hernandez success at the state meet, where the athlete was pursuing another title in girls’ track and field competition.

The interaction comes as debates over biological males competing in female sports continue to generate intense discussion across California and the nation. Supporters of women’s athletics have argued that preserving competitive fairness requires maintaining separate categories based on biological sex, while others support policies allowing transgender athletes to compete according to their gender identity.

For many parents, athletes, and coaches, the issue remains one of the most controversial topics in sports today. It is also a debate that is unlikely to disappear anytime soon, especially when state-level leaders choose to publicly champion one side of the argument. As if California politics didn’t already have enough issues demanding attention, the fight over fairness in sports continues to dominate headlines.

As the discussion moves forward, voters will ultimately have the opportunity to weigh candidates’ positions on issues affecting schools, athletics, and public policy. The ongoing debate underscores the importance of civic engagement and the role citizens play in shaping the future of their communities and state.