LGBTQIA+ Rights
If children don't get exposed to different perspectives, how are they going to confront the world when they grow up? Opting out has been used excessively in a way that’s detrimental in an increasing range of ways, but one of the most notable is the way it’s used to try to stop children from any exposure to representation or inclusive lessons involving the LGBTQI+ community. This doesn’t protect children, though; if anything it deprives them.
Though the topic of trans kids in sports has been woefully exaggerated as a means to demonize one of the most marginalized, at-risk communities, creating controversy where it was virtually nonexistent and tormenting children, regardless of if they were cis or trans, for some grand cruelty crusade, I want to make it clear: I support trans kids in sports. Everyone should have the opportunity to compete, regardless of their gender identity. There is a lot of disinformation out there and the actual likelihood this will even be relevant to most Jerseyans is slim, but far too many legislators have been letting this community down and have been afraid to speak directly on this, trying to fold it into privacy rights, even suggesting we somehow can’t speak firmly about this and work on making sure people have access to healthcare at the same time. Kids being able to participate alongside their friends in after school sports is not a “tier 2 issue” to them or to those trying to use this as a way to generate fear or frustration against trans rights as a whole. So I support trans athletes and I will stand by them, regardless of how few there actually are.
NJ will continue to enable folks to change the gender marker on their birth certificate and driver’s license without requiring proof of “gender reassignment surgery.” People will continue to have a third option for their gender marker, “Undesignated/Non-binary” for birth certificates and “X” for drivers licenses and non driver ID cards. (Steps for how to change your gender marker can be found here)
I stand firmly in support of gender-affirming care for transgender youth in New Jersey. It is unacceptable that families are facing disruptions in essential treatments like hormone therapy and puberty blockers due to political pressures. Every child deserves access to comprehensive health care that respects their identity and supports their well-being. I will advocate for policies that protect and expand access to these vital services, ensuring that our youth can live authentically and thrive without fear of losing critical support. New Jersey must lead the way in protecting the rights and health of all its residents, especially our most vulnerable youth.
Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill and Congressman Josh Gottheimer voted in December 2024 to limit healthcare access for transgender minors in military families through the National Defense Authorization Act. Our service members and their families deserve comprehensive care for their children. As governor, I will ensure that every child in New Jersey has access to the healthcare they need, no matter their identity, background or immigration status. Everyone deserves support and care.