A transgender high school student’s question to Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R), who has rolled back protections for trans students, got a dodge for the ages at a CNN town hall event on Friday night.
The student, who was approached by Niko, identified himself as a transgender person and pressed Youngkin on anti-trans policies, including proposals that would limit trans students’ participation in athletics and bathroom use.
“Do you think the girls at my high school would enjoy sharing the bathroom with me?” asked Niko.
Without answering yes or no, Youngkin steals the belief about the strong parent-child relationship.
“I believe first, when parents are engaged with their children, you can make good decisions,” he said. “I also think there are a lot of students involved in this decision.”
She went on to call for more school plumbing infrastructure, including gender-neutral facilities “so people can use bathrooms that they’re actually comfortable with.”
He claims his policy on sports is clear and non-controversial, and supports the progress made for “women in sports.”
“Again, I think it’s a very difficult discussion and I’m very happy to see you and your father here together,” Youngkin said as CNN cameras showed the two appeared disappointed by the response.
Twitter users noted Niko “a hesitant expression” and criticized Youngkin for avoiding the student’s question.