During the COVID relief bill debate on Capitol Hill today, GOP senators tried and failed to tack on an anti-transgender amendment that would deny funding to schools that allow transgender girls to participate in an athletic program designated for girls.
The amendment was introduced by Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and co-sponsored by Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS).
Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) spoke out against the amendment, calling it “simply an attempt to discriminate against transgender students.”
“For the love of God, can't we just have a little bit of heart and compassion in this world for someone who doesn't look or live exactly like you?” asked Murray. “Instead of focusing on discriminatory policies, we should be examining the real issues with gender parity in sports when it comes to funding, and resources, and pay equity.”
The amendment failed 50-49, with all Democrats except Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) voting against and all Republicans except Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) voting in favor.
