Conservatives Criticize Ohio Governor DeWine for Transgender Bill Veto

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine faced backlash from conservative figures and groups after vetoing the Save Adolescents from Experimentation Act (HB 68), which aimed to prohibit medical transgender treatments for minors and restrict male participation in women’s sports.

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DeWine’s Veto and Conservative Response

DeWine’s veto of HB 68, citing parental rights and the need for interdisciplinary healthcare decisions, received sharp criticism from fellow Republicans and conservative voices, who urged the state legislature to override the veto and enforce the legislation.

Ohio Senator J.D. Vance expressed disappointment in DeWine’s reliance on parental rights, highlighting concerns about external pressures and irreversible medical procedures and dismissing the argument as inadequate justification.

Secretary of State Frank LaRose, eyeing Ohio’s Senate seat, called for legislative action, emphasizing the duty to safeguard fairness in sports and protect minors from life-altering medical interventions.

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Reaction and Fallout

DeWine’s decision aligns him against the tide of Republican governors, with critics asserting that the veto endangers children and undermines female athletes, terming it a mistake and a surrender to radical gender ideology.

Conservative groups, including Heritage Action, strongly condemned DeWine’s move, stressing the responsibility to shield minors and female athletes from potential harm due to irreversible physical and psychological effects.

Detransitioner activist Chloe Cole, critical of the decision, suggested that DeWine’s veto might have consequential ramifications for his political future, drawing attention to the influence of the medical lobby.

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