Former Vikings Player Jack Brewer and Riley Gaines Rally in Minnesota for Transgender Athlete Ban
Minneapolis, MN – Former Minnesota Vikings player Jack Brewer and conservative activist Riley Gaines are set to headline a rally in Minnesota on Monday, advocating for the passage of a bill that would prohibit transgender athletes from participating in women’s sports. The "Preserving Girls Sports Act," recently approved by the state’s House Education Policy Committee on February 20th, is scheduled for a vote in the House of Representatives.
The bill’s fate remains uncertain, as it is widely anticipated that Governor Tim Walz, a staunch supporter of transgender rights, would veto the legislation if it were to reach his desk. This potential veto sets the stage for a contentious showdown between advocates on both sides of the issue, highlighting the deep divisions within the state regarding transgender rights and athletic participation.
Brewer, the founder of the Jack Brewer Foundation, has expressed strong opposition to Governor Walz’s stance on transgender issues, particularly in light of Walz’s background as a high school football coach. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Brewer described Walz’s pro-transgender policies as "disgusting," questioning the governor’s appeal to "real men and boys who have battled it out on the gridiron."
Brewer’s criticism extends beyond policy disagreements, as he accuses Walz of betraying the values of the football community. "I think he’s a disgrace to the football world, to be honest," Brewer stated, reflecting the intensity of the debate surrounding transgender athletes in sports.
Governor Walz has been a vocal advocate for transgender rights, demonstrated by his signing of the "Trans Refuge" bill in April 2023. This legislation protects individuals seeking and providing gender-affirming care within the state, further solidifying Minnesota’s reputation as a haven for transgender individuals.
However, Minnesota’s inclusive policies have drawn scrutiny from federal authorities. The U.S. Department of Education is currently investigating the state for allegedly defying President Donald Trump’s "No Men in Women’s Sports" executive order, which sought to restrict transgender athletes’ participation in women’s sports.
Adding another layer to the controversy, Governor Walz’s daughter, Hope Walz, recently gained attention for her TikTok videos defending transgender athletes and criticizing Trump’s executive order. Her outspokenness underscores the generational divide on this issue, with younger generations often expressing greater acceptance and support for transgender rights.
Despite their differing views, Brewer has expressed a willingness to engage in a dialogue with Governor Walz. "When I get there on Monday, if he would invite me in his office and have a conversation about this, I would respectfully accept it," Brewer stated. He believes that Walz secretly harbors doubts about his pro-transgender policies, suggesting that the governor is motivated by political expediency and financial incentives from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups.
"I would tell him that I know that deep down in his heart he doesn’t believe in it," Brewer added. "I think deep down in his heart he knows it’s wrong. I think he’s trying to appeal to a far-left liberal base…and raise money. These LGBTQ groups donate a lot of money, particularly in Minnesota. So, the money and power they have is really pushing this legislation."
Brewer acknowledges the unlikelihood of Walz signing the bill into law, citing the governor’s consistent support for transgender rights. "You know he’s not going to do it because it’s just who he has continued to be," Brewer said. "I pray that he has a change of heart and an awakening, but I’m sure if he does sign it, it will just be because the money train has ended."
Echoing Brewer’s sentiment, Riley Gaines also anticipates a veto from Governor Walz. However, Gaines emphasizes the importance of forcing lawmakers to take a public stance on the issue. "I’m fairly certain Gov. Walz would veto this bill," Gaines said. "But even if it doesn’t have the best possibility of being signed into law, it is so, so important that we have these members, these representatives, these senators, on the record. Do they stand with women or do they not?"
The rally in Minnesota is expected to draw a significant crowd of supporters and opponents, highlighting the intensity of the debate surrounding transgender athletes in sports. The outcome of the House vote and the potential for a gubernatorial veto will have far-reaching implications for transgender rights and athletic participation in the state.
Governor Walz’s office did not respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment prior to publication, leaving the governor’s position open to interpretation. The coming days will be crucial in determining the fate of the "Preserving Girls Sports Act" and the broader landscape of transgender rights in Minnesota.
This issue is not isolated to Minnesota. Across the nation, debates regarding transgender athletes are playing out in state legislatures, courtrooms, and public forums. The arguments center around fairness, safety, and inclusion, with passionate advocates on both sides of the issue. As the debate continues, the need for respectful dialogue and a commitment to finding common ground is paramount.
