WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump has called for a direct apology from Maine Governor Janet Mills following their heated debate.
Funding Threat
Trump warned Maine could lose federal funding if it refused to follow his transgender athlete ban.
His executive order prohibits transgender women from competing in women’s sports.
Mills pushed back against Trump’s demand, challenging him at a National Governors Association summit.
During the February exchange, Mills firmly responded, “See you in court.”
Following this, the Department of Education launched an investigation into Maine’s compliance with Title IX.
Trump’s Response
Trump claimed Maine officials had apologized, but not Mills herself.
“It is the Governor who matters in such cases,” Trump stated.
He insisted on a “full-throated apology” directly from Mills.
Trump also demanded Mills pledge not to challenge federal policies on transgender athletes.
He suggested the case could be settled if Mills complied with his request.
Legal Showdown
The Department of Education’s civil rights division is reviewing Maine’s policies.
The investigation seeks to determine if Maine violated the federal ban on transgender women in sports.
Mills has remained firm, refusing to back down from her opposition.
Trump’s executive order has sparked nationwide legal battles over transgender rights in sports.
Advocates argue the ban violates civil rights protections under Title IX.
Ongoing Dispute
Maine officials have not confirmed any apology regarding the policy dispute.
It is unclear what apology Trump referred to in his statement.
Mills has not issued any statement suggesting she will comply with Trump’s demands.
Trump’s insistence on an apology suggests he sees this issue as politically significant.
The dispute highlights growing tensions between federal and state policies on transgender rights.
Future Implications
The investigation could lead to legal battles between Maine and the federal government.
Mills’ defiance sets the stage for a broader debate on state autonomy.
LGBTQ+ rights groups have condemned Trump’s policy as discriminatory.
Republicans supporting Trump argue the ban protects women’s sports from unfair competition.
The issue remains a contentious topic in national politics and upcoming elections.
