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Newsom makes shock move on bill requiring judges to consider child’s gender affirmation in custody cases

September 23, 2023 | | Print Article

California Governor Gavin Newsom unexpectedly vetoed a controversial bill that would have inserted radical gender theory into parental custody cases by requiring judges to consider whether parents have “affirmed” a child’s gender identity.

On Friday night, the governor rejected Assembly Bill 957 in a move that may infuriate leftists who have faced little resistance to the advancement of the transgender agenda when it comes to kids. The move signals that the politically ambitious Democrat may be eyeing an opportunity to step in for the faltering Joe Biden if the party decides to replace the geriatric president at the top of the ticket in next year’s election.

“I am returning Assembly Bill 957 without my signature,” Newsom wrote in his message to State Assembly lawmakers. “This legislation would require a court, when determining the best interests of a child in a child custody or visitation proceeding, to consider, among other comprehensive factors, a parent’s affirmation of the child’s gender identity or gender expression.”

“I appreciate the passion and values that led the author to introduce this bill,” the governor added. “I share a deep commitment to advancing the rights of transgender Californians, an effort that has guided my decisions through many decades in public office.”

“That said, I urge caution when the Executive and Legislative branches of state government attempt to dictate – in prescriptive terms that single out one characteristic – legal standards for the Judicial branch to apply,” he said. “Other-minded elected officials, in California and other states, could very well use this strategy to diminish the rights of vulnerable communities.”

“Moreover, a court, under existing law, is required to consider a child’s health, safety, and welfare when determining the best interests of a child in these proceedings, including the parent’s affirmation of the child’s gender identity,” Newsom concluded.

“I am extremely disappointed. I know the Governor’s record. He’s been a champion for the LGBTQ+ community for years and even before it was popular to do so,” said Assemblywoman Lori Wilson who was the driving force behind the AB 957. “However, on this point, the Governor and I disagree on the best way to protect TGI kids. I’ve been disheartened over the last few years as I watched the rising hate and heard the vitriol towards the trans community.”

“My intent with this bill was to give them a voice, particularly in the family court system where a non-affirming parent could have a detrimental impact on the mental health and well-being of a child,” Wilson said. “Whether the roadblock comes from the opposition or even a supporter, it only hardens my resolve. I’m far from done, this fight is personal! Not just for my family, but to all the trans kids that deserve a brighter and safer future.”

Democrat State Senator Scott Wiener, who has been at the tip of the spear of imposing the queer agenda on kids, took to X to blast Newsom’s decision.

“This veto is a tragedy for trans kids here & around the country. These kids are living in fear, with right wing politicians working to out them, deny them health care, ban them from sports & restrooms & erase their humanity,” wrote Wiener. “CA needs to unequivocally stand with these kids.”

A cunning and savvy politician, Newsom may see an opportunity and a major betrayal of the minuscule but extremely noisy transgender constituency that will allow him to sell himself as a moderate to swing voters if and when Biden gets the hook.

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Chris Donaldson
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