Trans congresswoman slams Capitol bathroom ban as 'a blatant attempt from far right-wing extremists'

A contentious debate has erupted on Capitol Hill after Republican Rep. 

Nancy Mace introduced a measure barring transgender women from using biological women's restrooms in the U.S. Capitol. The proposal directly affects Congresswoman-elect Sarah McBride, the first openly transgender member of Congress, who will take office in January.  

“This is a blatant attempt from far right-wing extremists to distract from the fact that they have no real solutions to what Americans are facing,” McBride stated. 

“We should be focused on bringing down the cost of housing, health care, and child care, not manufacturing culture wars.”  

Rep. Mace defended her proposal, writing on X: "Playing make believe dress up doesn't mean you should be allowed in women's private spaces." 

The proposed rule would require the sergeant at arms to enforce restrictions, ensuring members and staffers use restrooms corresponding to their biological sex.  

The measure sparked significant backlash from Democrats. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez labeled it "plain bullying," while Rep. Becca Balint described it as "cruelty for the sake of cruelty." McBride called for "kindness," adding, "I hope members of Congress can muster that same kindness Americans show in their workplaces daily."  

Prominent Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene supported the measure, stating, "He is a man. He is not allowed to use our women’s restrooms... The American people spoke in the election. They’re sick of this s***.” 

Greene also rejected calls for adding gender-neutral restrooms, saying McBride "can use the men's room or the bathroom in his office."  

McBride’s election represents a series of historic firsts for the LGBTQ+ community. She previously interned at the White House, spoke at the Democratic National Convention, and served in the Delaware State Senate.  

The proposal is set to be debated as part of the rules package for the 119th Congress in January. Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed Republicans are "working on the issue," signaling potential momentum for the measure.