Gov. JB Pritzker vows Illinois will boost sex changes after decisive Trump victory
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has pledged to continue supporting transgender treatment in his state, particularly for minors, despite the controversy surrounding the issue during the recent presidential election. In a tweet marking Transgender Awareness Week, Pritzker assured the transgender community that they have his full support as governor.
The Pritzker family has a personal connection to the transgender movement, with his cousin Jennifer, who was born male but now identifies as female, being an outspoken advocate for transgender rights. Jennifer Pritzker, a former lieutenant colonel in the United States Army National Guard, leads the Chicago-based Tawani Foundation, which supports organizations that focus on gender and human sexuality issues.
Illinois is known for its progressive stance on transgender rights, with Governor Pritzker enacting guidance through the Illinois Department of Human Services to ensure non-discrimination protections for transgender, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming students. This includes allowing biological males to compete in female sports and access facilities based on their gender identity without the need for documentation.
However, with the recent nationwide shift in political landscape following the 2024 presidential election, some Democrats who support gender-affirming policies for minors are reconsidering their stance. President-elect Trump has expressed intentions to stop federal funding for gender transition procedures and ban child sexual mutilation in all 50 states.
In Illinois, Medicaid covers gender transition surgeries and drugs for individuals over 21 years old under Governor Pritzker’s administration. Despite the potential challenges ahead, Pritzker remains committed to upholding the rights and protections for the transgender community in his state.
As the debate over transgender rights continues to evolve, Governor Pritzker’s unwavering support for gender-affirming care sends a clear message that Illinois will remain a safe and inclusive place for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.
