A tense exchange took place at the White House between President Donald Trump and Maine Governor Janet Mills over his executive order banning transgender women and girls from competing in women’s sports. During a meeting with governors, Trump singled out Mills, demanding compliance and threatening to pull federal funding if she refused. Mills responded that she was following state and federal laws, prompting Trump to challenge her in court.
Governors in the room described the discussion as “uncomfortable.” Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt acknowledged the tension, while Colorado Governor Jared Polis stressed the importance of respectful discourse.
Trump’s executive order aims to cut funding for schools that allow trans athletes to compete, but the Maine Principal’s Association reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity under the Maine Human Rights Act. Mills vowed to take legal action to protect Maine’s funding, arguing that no president can enforce compliance without adhering to the rule of law.