A fiery exchange between U.S. President Donald Trump and Maine Governor Janet Mills erupted on Friday over Trump’s controversial executive order barring transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports.
During a White House meeting with governors, Trump touted his decision, saying, “Two weeks ago, I signed an executive order banning men from playing in women’s sports. Many Democrats are fighting me on that—I hope you continue, because you’ll never win another race.”
Mills, unfazed, responded, “I’m complying with state and federal laws.”
Trump shot back, “Well, we are the federal law… You better do it, because you’re not going to get any federal funding at all if you don’t.”
Mills didn’t back down. “See you in court,” she declared.
“Good, I’ll see you in court. That should be a real easy one. And enjoy your life after governor, because I don’t think you’ll be in elected politics,” a visibly irritated Trump replied.
The executive order gives federal agencies the power to withhold funding from schools that allow transgender athletes to compete based on gender identity. However, Maine officials have vowed to fight back, citing state law protecting transgender rights.
Shortly after the exchange, the U.S. Department of Education launched an investigation into Maine’s policies, claiming they violate Title IX by allowing transgender athletes in girls’ sports.
Governor Mills called the move a “politically directed attack” and vowed to defend her state’s rights. “This isn’t just about sports—it’s about whether a president can force compliance with his will, ignoring the rule of law,” she said.
As Trump continues to push his agenda against transgender inclusion, the legal battle lines are drawn, setting the stage for a showdown that could shape the future of LGBTQ rights and federal authority in the U.S.
